The Tree of Hope Project is a symbolic and tangible initiative for Police Services dedicated to combating violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2-Spirited individuals. Paying tribute to the lives of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit individuals who have gone missing or been murdered, and acknowledging the ongoing trauma experienced by their families and communities addresses the following key objectives of the Tree of Hope project.

1. Honoring Victims and Survivors as the primary purpose.

2. Raising Awareness about the issue and scale of the MMIWG2S tragedy and the need for systemic change to address violence against these groups.

3. Promoting Cultural Healing by providing a space for communities to reflect on the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism, systemic violence, and injustice.

4. Support for Justice and Action by amplifying Calls for Justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

5. Community Collaboration by working together with Indigenous communities.

6. Promote Dialogue by encouraging conversations about the history, context, and importance of the MMIWG2S issue.

7. Creating Lasting Impact by sharing and strengthening a symbol of hope and resilience.

Since it was introduced in 2019 at the Thunder Bay Police Service, the Tree of Hope project has expanded. Dozens of Ontario police services have participated in the initiative. In 2024, the Thunder Bay Police Service brought the Tree of Hope to Parliament Hill in Ottawa, with the support of federal Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu, and remarks by Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse. This promoted national attention to the issue of MMIWG2S. The project has also inspired similar ceremonies in other regions. In 2023, the Treaty Three Police Service (T3PS) participated by lighting trees at both their General Headquarters in Kenora and their South Detachment on Agency One Lands. This act was part of a broader commitment to raise awareness about the MMIWG2S crisis.

Weather. Consider providing shelter and/or space for warming up. 

Food. Consider providing culturally appropriate warm beverages such as tea, as well as small snacks. 

Photography and videography. Engage participants to determine the appropriateness of recording during cultural elements of the event. Advise media and guests as to which portions may or may not be photographed or recorded.

The following are suggestions for individuals, groups, and organizations to involve for an event that is respectful, meaningful, and grounded in the lived experiences of those most impacted by MMIWG2S. It is imperative to involve a community member who has been personally impacted by the MMIWG2S crisis as a survivor or family member of a victim. This person must be supported in a good and culturally appropriate way to share their story as part of the Tree of Hope event. Remember to approach this person is a culturally appropriate manner, such as by offering tobacco, and to give this person the time and resources they need, such as a support person with them as they speak. Working in partnership with local Indigenous organizations and Knowledge Keepers will help shape an event that honors truth, fosters healing, and supports ongoing calls for justice. Speakers: In addition to the Chief of your police service, speakers may include:

• Elder
• Chief of Traditional Territory
• Survivors and/or family members of victims
• Ontario Native Women’s Association as advocates for MMIWG2S
• Other local and regional Indigenous leaders, partners and/or associations as appropriate
• City Mayor
• Consider a member of your police service who works with victims and/or families 

Lighting of the Tree:

• The event coordinator, in consultation with an Elder, should determine who to invite to light the Tree of Hope. This may include family members of a victim and/or a survivor.
• This may or may not involve a speaking role, depending on the comfort level and preference of the person/people.
• The lighting of the Tree of Hope is the act of plugging in or turning on the lights at 7:00pm. 

Invitations:

• Survivors and family members of victims
• Community Elders
• Leaders of key organizations working to address MMIWG2S: Political Territory Organizations, Advocacy Groups, Service Providers, Grassroots organizations
• Members of your police service
• Partner law enforcement services
• Local and regional provincial and federal members of parliament
• City Councillors

Cultural Inclusivity: 

Creating an inclusive and respectful event begins with recognizing and honoring the diverse cultures and communities represented, especially the Indigenous Peoples whose lands on which the event will take place. Guidance on embedding cultural inclusivity into every stage of event planning and delivery must be sought through active and meaningful collaboration. Local and/or regional Indigenous Elders, community leaders and members should be invited to provide guidance to ensure that all customs, teachings, and protocols are observed appropriately and respectfully. Invitations may involve offering of tobacco. Meaningful engagement and partnership will not only enrich the event experience but also uphold the principles of equity, reconciliation, and mutual respect. 

The following are some elements to consider for the MMIWG2S Tree of Hope lighting ceremony. 

Sacred Fire: A Firekeeper coordinates all elements and determines location, set-up, start time, medicines, and safety protocols. Smudge: An Elder conducts or assigns a designate to conduct the ceremony. The smudge occurs just prior to the official start-time of the event.

Opening Prayer: A respected Elder is offered tobacco to provide a prayer to begin the event in a good way. 

Drumming: A local women’s hand drumming group is invited to drum during the event. The drum group chooses four songs, one to honour each direction. Note that the drummers may require a table on which to keep their drums and personal bundles. 

Eagle Staff: The local/regional Chief(s) should be consulted for guidance on inviting Eagle Staff Carrier(s) to attend. 

Honoraria: Consult local leaders of Indigenous organizations for appropriate rates, gifting and protocols for Elders, Drummers, Fire Keeper, Eagle Staff Carriers and others.

The Tree The Tree of Hope lighting ceremony is held on the first Sunday after Remembrance Day. The lighting should occur at 19:00 to align with other police services.

Three - Four Months Before the Event

1. Identify an Event Lead: Consider forming a planning team to oversee the event, including members from law enforcement, Indigenous communities, advocacy groups and other relevant partners. Define roles and responsibilities for each team member.
2. Engage with Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers: Collaborate with Indigenous elders, community leaders, and spiritual guides to ensure cultural protocols and ceremonies are respected. Involve community members in the planning process to make sure the ceremony is authentic and culturally sensitive.
3. Choose a Location: Confirm a space at the police service’s headquarters that is accessible, safe, and able to accommodate the expected number of attendees.
4. Budget: Establish a budget for the event, including costs for honoraria, gifts, lighting, supplies, and refreshments. If required, seek support through donations, sponsorships, or grants. For example, a local hardware store may donate lights for the Tree of Hope.
5. Purchase Essential Supplies: Buy or order an artificial tree and red tree lights (1,000 – 4,000 depending on size of tree). Purchase early to avoid seasonal depletion of products.

Two Months Before the Event

1. Confirm Ceremony Participants: In a culturally appropriate manner and with the guidance of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers, invite people to provide prayers, remarks, and drumming.
2. Arrange Staffing: Ensure people are scheduled to provide appropriate security, assistance with event set-up, etc.

One Month Before the Event

1. Prepare the Agenda: Plan the structure of the ceremony (e.g., prayers, drumming, remarks, symbolic lighting of the tree). Include time for reflections, sharing of stories, and opportunities for attendees to engage with the event's theme.
2. Finalize Partnerships and Sponsorships: Confirm sponsorships and partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and community groups to support the event. Work with local media to promote the event, secure event coverage and amplify the event’s message.
3. Publicity and Invitations: Begin promoting the event internally and through social media, local news, and community outreach. Send invitations to key partners, dignitaries, and community members.

Two Weeks Before the Event

1. Confirm Speakers, Participants, and Special Guests: Confirm attendance and participation from Elders, speakers, drummers, and any special guests involved in the ceremony. Coordinate with and support speakers to ensure their remarks are distinct and align with the event’s purpose.
2. Finalize Event Logistics: Organize any necessary AV equipment (microphones, lighting, sound systems) and venue set up requirements. Make arrangements specific to your event. For example, if using an especially tall tree, special equipment may be required to hang lights on it. Arrange for the production of any necessary signage, including information about MMIWG2S and the Tree of Hope.
3. Share the Agenda: Provide to participants the agenda and any informational materials related to the ceremony and MMIWG2S awareness.
4. Order event catering: If event is to be held outdoors, ensure food and beverages are appropriate.

One Week Before the Event

1. Finalize Media Coverage: Secure local media coverage to raise awareness of the event. Prepare media releases and media kits and provide key contacts for journalists.
2. Distribute Invitations and Event Information: Confirm RSVP details and send final event reminders to participants and guests.

Week of the Event

1. Event Setup and Decoration: Begin decorating the venue and setting up the tree, lighting, and any signage or displays. Ensure all equipment is functioning.
2. Check Event Materials: Ensure all materials (e.g., information, posters) are ready for distribution.
3. Review Event Flow and Timing: Reconfirm the event agenda with all participants and ensure that timing is being adhered to.

Day of the Event

1. Final Setup: Arrive early to finalize event setup and ensure all equipment is ready for use (e.g., sound system, lighting). Set up tables, welcome guests, and direct participants as they arrive.
2. Coordinate with Volunteers and Staff: Brief volunteers and staff on their roles for the ceremony, ensuring that everyone is prepared and understands the flow of the event.
3. Conduct the Ceremony: Follow the event agenda, ensuring that all speakers and activities stay on time and that the ceremony remains respectful and focused on the objectives.
4. Document the Ceremony: Take photos/video for later sharing and reflection.
5. Post-Event Follow-up: Issue media release. Thank participants, volunteers, and sponsors. Gather feedback from attendees to improve future events. Share event highlights to social media, website, etc. The red lights serve as a poignant tribute to the enduring memory of MMIWG2S individuals. Keep them on throughout January. Some services choose to keep the Tree of Hope lit until spring.

The Tree of Hope project was initiated by now-retired Thunder Bay Police Service Constable Sharlene Bourdeau. 

Please contact the Thunder Bay Police Service at news@thunderbaypolice.ca with questions about planning a Tree of Hope event, or to get in contact with Sharlene.