TCL, along with the rest of the world, became aware of the largest unmarked mass grave of Indigenous children, found on the grounds of a former residential school. The youth at The Giving Tree Unionville, a social justice group in Markham, were impacted by these horrific discoveries. They decided to reach out to Indigenous teenagers their own age and discovered, firsthand, numerous more crimes against humanity that their communities faced and continue to face. Many of them had lost grandmothers, mothers, and sisters with little to no concern from the authorities.

 

In September 2021, the youth held the Red Dress Project to raise awareness about the issues. Thousands of people attended, many of whom were horrified and left in tears after learning about the atrocities that have been committed against Indigenous women and children and the continuing injustices.

 

After the Red Dress Project event, it was evident that vital talks needed to continue and a need to educate one another. After doing some research, The Canadian Library was inspired by British-Nigerian artist, Yinka Shonibare, to create this difficult but important project. Donated books and vibrant Indigenous designed fabrics will create a lasting memorial to honour lives lost.