The Red Handprint: A Symbol of the MMIWG Movement

The red handprint has become a powerful and haunting symbol representing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG). It is often painted over the mouths of activists, survivors, and allies to signify the silenced voices of Indigenous women and the ongoing crisis of violence against them. But where did this symbol come from, and what does it represent?

Origins of the Red Handprint Symbol

The red handprint is deeply tied to the MMIWG movement, which seeks to raise awareness about the disproportionately high rates of violence, abduction, and murder affecting Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals in the United States, Canada, and beyond.

The handprint gained widespread recognition through Indigenous activists and artists, particularly as part of movements like No More Stolen Sisters (led by the Native Women’s Association of Canada) and the broader MMIWG awareness campaigns. It became a visual representation of how Indigenous women’s voices have been silenced—by violence, systemic neglect, and a lack of justice.

Why the Color Red?

The color red holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in many Indigenous traditions. Some believe red is the only color spirits can see, meaning it helps guide the lost souls of missing and murdered women back home. Others see it as a color of strength, power, and mourning.

The red handprint was popularized by Hanna Edenshaw, a Haida artist and activist, who painted it over her mouth in protests to symbolize silenced voices. Since then, it has been widely adopted across North America by advocates, protestors, and artists.

The MMIWG Crisis: A Hidden Epidemic

The MMIWG movement brings attention to a devastating reality:

• Indigenous women in the U.S. are 10 times more likely to be murdered than non-Indigenous women.

• In Canada, Indigenous women make up 16% of all female homicide victims, despite representing only 4% of the population.

• Many cases remain unsolved, underreported, or ignored due to systemic racism and jurisdictional gaps between tribal, federal, and local law enforcement.

The Role of Art and Activism

The red handprint has become a visual rallying cry. It appears in murals, street art, protests, and social media campaigns. Events like the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (May 5th) encourage people to wear red in solidarity.

Organizations such as the MMIWG Coalition, Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC), and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women USA (MMIW USA) continue to fight for justice, policy changes, and better protections for Indigenous women.

How You Can Help

• Educate Yourself & Others: Learn about MMIWG issues and share their stories.

• Support Indigenous Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with groups fighting for justice.

• Amplify Indigenous Voices: Follow and support Indigenous activists, artists, and journalists.

• Advocate for Policy Changes: Encourage lawmakers to address systemic failures in law enforcement and justice for Indigenous communities.

TL;DR

The red handprint is a powerful symbol of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG) movement, representing the silencing of victims and the fight for justice. It gained prominence through Indigenous activists and artists, with red symbolizing strength, mourning, and guiding lost spirits home.