Wearing Red Shawls to Bring Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples

Alternative Text for the Poster

The poster graphic includes a black and white photograph of dress-shaped beaded earrings laying on a shawl with one earring appearing bright red and black.

Text reads: “Red Shawl Day. November 19. The National Park Serice supports Red Shawl Day. Wear red to raise awareness and draw attention to the horrible acts of violence against Indigenous people, especially the women and children. #RedShawlDay #NPSIndigenous”. The text is followed by the National Park Service logo. 

Observed on November 19, Red Shawl Day is meant to bring attention year-round.

Image designed by the National Park Service

According to the Department of Justice, American Indian and Alaska Native women are missing and murdered at a rate of more than 10 times the national average. Red Shawl Day is an annual national effort to bring attention to acts of violence committed against Indigenous people. Throughout the week surrounding November 19, people are encouraged to wear red as a symbol of the loss of sacred lifeblood through violence.   

The National Park Service is part of an all-of-government effort to bring attention and action to missing and murdered Indigenous people. America‘s national parks are part of and surrounded by many Indigenous communities. As part of this observance, you may see National Park Service staff wearing red shawls.

Ways to Help and Raise Awareness

• Being aware and spreading awareness of this issue can save lives.
• Report suspicious activities when visiting public lands to local law enforcement.
• Wear a red shawl or red clothing the day and week of Red Shawl Day
• Join the conversation on social media using #RedShawlDay and #NPSIndigenous.

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