Thunder Bay’s journey with the Moose Hide Campaign shows how a simple, community-driven idea can grow into a meaningful annual gathering when people keep showing up with heart and commitment. Over three years, their event has expanded in size, visibility, and partnerships — an inspiring example for new Community Stewards beginning their own journeys.
2023: Small Beginnings with Big Heart
In 2023, the Ontario Native Women’s Association started with a kiosk at the local mall, sharing information about the Moose Hide Campaign and handing out more than 525 pins to shoppers and families.
On Moose Hide Campaign Day, they organized a walk from the mall to City Hall, led by a drum group. The community gathered for drumming, words from an Elder, and keynote speakers. Team members also visited a local high school to speak about Moose Hide Campaign Day and the realities of MMIWG — creating early learning opportunities for youth.
These first steps laid the foundation for what would come next.
2024: Building Momentum
By the second year, more people joined the walk, and awareness spread across the community. Local organizations, families, and schools began to connect with the event, helping to build a sense of shared purpose. The walk was becoming a recognized part of Thunder Bay’s efforts to stand against gender-based violence.
2025: A Stronger Network of Partners and Participants
In 2025, the walk continued to grow, supported by an expanding circle of community partners.
In the days leading up to the walk, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery hosted a poster-making event where youth and community members created signs to carry on Moose Hide Campaign Day. This intergenerational gathering brought creativity, learning, and connection into the heart of the event.
The team also returned to the Intercity Shopping Centre to share pins and promote the walk — continuing a practice that began in 2023.
On May 15, participants gathered at the Ontario Native Women’s Association and walked to the Lakehead University Agora, where they were welcomed with speakers, drummers, and refreshments.
The event wasn’t just repeating — it was growing, connecting more people, and strengthening relationships across the city.
Thunder Bay’s story reminds us that meaningful community events don’t happen overnight. They grow little by little — one kiosk, one conversation, one walk at a time. When communities return each year with openness and care, the circle naturally widens.
Thunder Bay shows that consistency, collaboration, and heart can spark real momentum.
