Bonnyville Friendship Centre to Host MMEIP Vigil October 6

The Bonnyville Friendship Centre invites the community to come together for an evening of remembrance, healing, and solidarity. On October 6 at the C2, the Centre will host a vigil to honour Missing, Murdered, and Exploited Indigenous People (MMEIP).

“This is a powerful community gathering to honour the lives lost — those who are murdered, went missing, and have been exploited,” said Angie Pappion, the Friendship Centre’s mental health therapist. “The event raises awareness and supports healing. The vigil offers space for families, survivors, and allies to come together all in one place, and a place of solidarity.”

The evening will include cultural performances, a free catered banquet, and remarks from guest speakers and dignitaries. “We have some amazing guest speakers for you guys,” Pappion shared. “We have dignitaries such as MLA Scott Cyr and MP Billy Morin, who is also the Shadow Minister for Indigenous Affairs. We are very excited and honoured to have them, as well as other big dignitaries coming to join in this event.”

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with the banquet beginning at 6:00 p.m., followed by the vigil at 7:00 p.m. While the event is free, tickets are required so organizers know how many to feed. Tickets can be picked up at the Bonnyville Friendship Centre or reserved by calling 780-826-3374.

Pappion stressed that this gathering is for everyone, not just Indigenous community members. “This is an event for Indigenous and non-Indigenous to be together. Healing happens when we stand together, not apart,” she said.

The Centre is encouraging surrounding communities to join in this important evening. “We already have a lot signed up,” Pappion noted. “Please come on down for this amazing opportunity.”