Rainbow Butterfly
Rainbow Butterfly is a warming shelter and a symbol of love, peace, and protection for Indigenous women and gender-diverse individuals. Representing the energy and spirit of parents, grandparents, and grandchildren she now stands proudly at her permanent home in St. John’s Park.
On August 19, 2024, Rainbow Butterfly was welcomed by the community of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Gender Diverse, and Two-Spirit People and Gender-Diverse families, survivors, and advocates. Her journey to finding a permanent space for love, safety, and acceptance was challenging, reflecting the experiences of many in Winnipeg. Named in a ceremony, her space aims to educate the public about the sacredness of Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse peoples.
The inner area serves as a place for reflection and education, featuring panels inscribed with the 231 Calls for Justice. Family members are invited to write victims' names on cloth and tie them to the structure, fostering a welcoming environment for reconciliation.
From spring 2022 until August 2024, Kildonan Park provided a temporary home for Rainbow Butterfly while the vision for her permanent residence was realized. However, she has also faced challenges, including graffiti and damage, which are viewed as acts of abuse.
The City is committed to collaborating with the community to create a safe, permanent space for Rainbow Butterfly. Winnipeggers are encouraged to appreciate her beauty and while enacting the Calls for Justice by speaking out against mistreatment, abuse and harm on Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse peoples.
Survivors, family members, and advocates of MMIWG2S+ wishing to book time at Rainbow Butterfly can contact indigenousrelations@winnipeg.ca. Gratitude is extended to Angela Lavallee, Sandra DeLaronde, Leslie Spillet, and all who contributed to the birth of Rainbow Butterfly, symbolizing the love and power of Indigenous feminine energy.
Birth of a Vision
As described by creator Angela Lavallee
In 2018, a collective of students from the University of Winnipeg, taking a “Non-Violent Social Change” class, initiated an action to honor Indigenous Women, Girls, Babies and Two-Spirited (MMIW GB2S). Inspired by discussions with family members of MMIWG2S and led by a vision of a “Red Dress Warming Hut,” the project aimed to raise awareness of this national crisis.
Despite challenges, including securing a permanent safe space, the project culminated in a ceremonial naming and a three-year journey to completion. The initiative seeks to honor and remember MMIWG2S+, enhance social inclusion through art, and raise awareness of local initiatives supporting these families, including Drag the Red, Families First Foundation, No Stone Unturned, Bear Clan Patrol, and Mama Bear Patrol.
This collaboration, supported by Indigenous architects Rachelle Lemieux and Ryan Gorie, emphasizes the sacredness of Indigenous women, urging recognition beyond mere statistics. Funding support came from Manitoba Moon Voices Inc.and WAGE (Women and Gender Equality) – Commemorative Funds, leading to the fulfillment of the 231 Calls for Justice.