Georgian College responds to incidents involving Red Dress installation
May 15, 2025
Together, we’re on a journey of reconciliation, and part of that journey includes addressing harm. With deep sadness and profound disappointment, we want to let the Georgian community know about two incidents that occurred at our Barrie Campus, where a Red Dress installation was damaged. We take these incidents very seriously – they’re not only disrespectful, but a violation of the values of our college and an affront to the very memory and lives of those we honour.
The installation called attention to the Red Dress Project, founded by Jaime Black, and Red Dress Day – a designated national day of awareness and remembrance to commemorate and honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit individuals.
These incidents caused deep hurt – and triggered pain and trauma for many in the Georgian community. They reinforce and sharply remind us of the violence and erasure Indigenous communities have faced for generations.
These incidents are under investigation and the individuals involved have been held responsible.
We must stand together to prevent and address these issues whenever they occur. Hate has no place on our campuses, and discrimination and violence will not be tolerated.
For those of you who are hurting or in distress because of these incidents, please know Georgian has resources to support you. We are in this together.
- Any student may book an in-person or virtual counselling appointment by calling 1.877.722.1523 or emailing studentsuccess@georgiancollege.ca.
- For after-hours counselling, any student may connect with a Good2Talk counsellor, 24/7 by calling the helpline at 1.866.925.5454 or texting “GOOD2TALKON” at 686868.
- International students may contact Guard Me Student Support Program by calling 1.844.451.9700 or downloading the My SSP App.
- Employees who need to speak with someone are always encouraged to use the Employee and Family Assistance Program.