Educators, during the month of May, we invite you and your school to take a pledge to walk or run 1-5km in honour of our missing and murdered loved ones, as part of our Tears to Hope Relay Run. This is also the month of Red Dress Day, a day to honour and remember Missing and Murdered Loved Ones.

You and your students can join at lunch time or during gym class. And it only takes 15 minutes to walk 1km!

1. Encourage safety- When youth go out, they can choose a safe, populated, and/or well lit route and destination.

2. Strength in numbers- When they are able, travel in pairs or groups.

3. Communicate- If youth need to travel alone, be sure to let someone know where you are going and when to expect your arrival.

4. Learn to listen- If you’re listening to music while you’re out on your own, be aware of your surroundings and maybe take one ear bud out.

5. See something, say something- Encourage youth to use their voice. If someone looks uncomfortable, is being mistreated, in person or online, say something. There’s never any harm in asking if someone is okay or getting a trusted adult to check on the person.

6. Consent- Maybe = no. I’m not sure = no. No means no. Simple as that.

7. Listen- when a MMIP family member speaks publicly about their loved ones, they are opening up about the most traumatic and heartbreaking time in their life. They are reliving it as they speak. The very least we can do is listen. Remember, there can not be reconciliation without active listening to truth.

8. This kind of awareness work can be emotionally draining. Be sure to take care of yourself. If you need to stop to take a break or reflect, please do so.

9. Listen to your gut. Sometimes we get a sense that we’re not safe. Listen to that voice inside you telling you to run or talk to a trusted adult who can help you.