May 2026 – Flower Moon (UFCW Indigenous Calendar)
Toronto – May 1, 2026 – With the arrival of May, the land comes fully into bloom, marking a time of beauty, growth, and renewal. Known as the Flower Moon in many Indigenous teachings, this period reflects the blossoming of plants and medicines, and the strengthening of life all around us. It is a time to nurture connections to the land, to one another, and to the teachings that guide us forward. As the earth flourishes, so too are we reminded of the importance of care, responsibility, and continued growth within our communities.
The Flower Moon represents a season of expansion and possibility. As flowers open and reach toward the sun, this moon invites us to do the same, to embrace growth, honour our paths, and uplift those around us. It is a time to recognize the interconnectedness of all living things and to move forward with intention, respect, and gratitude.
Key Dates in May:
May 5: Red Dress Day
Red Dress Day raises awareness about the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples. The display of empty red dresses serves as a powerful visual reminder of those who are missing and those whose lives have been taken, while also calling for justice, accountability, and healing.
In honour of Red Dress Day, we recognize Gwenn Brake, a UFCW Local 864 member from Potlotek First Nation in Nova Scotia and a recipient of the 2025 UFCW Canada Equity Grant. Gwenn is a tireless advocate working to end violence against Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit people. With support from the UFCW Canada Equity Grant program, she has led the creation of billboards to be installed at the entrances and exits of her community, ensuring this critical message is seen and remembered. We stand in solidarity with Gwenn and all those working to end this violence. Watch below as shares Gwenn’s voice and highlights the importance of these billboards and the message they carry.
May 10: Bear Witness Day
Bear Witness Day honours Jordan River Anderson and calls on people across the country to “Bear Witness” to ensure the full implementation of Jordan’s Principle. This principle exists to ensure that First Nations children receive the services they need, when they need them, without delay or jurisdictional barriers. While there has been progress, challenges remain, and this day serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for accountability and action.
May 15: Moose Hide Campaign Day
Moose Hide Campaign Day is a day of ceremony and commitment focused on ending violence against Indigenous women and children. Participants wear a small square of moose hide as a symbol of their pledge to stand up against violence and support survivors. The campaign encourages reflection, education, and collective action to create safer communities rooted in respect and care.
The 13 Grandmother Moon Teachings shared here are drawn from Kinoomaadiewinan Anishinabek Bimaadinzinwin, Book Two by Arlene Berry. It is important to recognize that teachings vary across the many distinct Nations and territories of Turtle Island.
To explore more significant dates and teachings, download the Carrying Forward: 2026 UFCW Canada Indigenous Committee Calendar today.
