People gathered in Galt Gardens to unite to bring peace to the community Oct. 14. Photo supplied.
It was on a crisp fall morning on Sept. 30 when a city woman was found clinging to life after being beaten, sexually assaulted and left to die.
As the news of the horrific attack hit the streets, all that was known was that police were still on the lookout for the attacker.
An arrest was eventually made and the accused was a man from the Blood Tribe. He now faces attempted murder charges.
His face and name was plastered all over the media, the upheaval was felt throughout the city, the province, and our nation.
The 25-year-old woman remains in the hospital in a medically-induced coma to help control the bleeding in her brain.
The Communities in Unity logo created by William Singer III.
The anger and frustration from the attack had city residents on edge.
People were hesitant to go outside alone. There were reports of natives being attacked, social media was buzzing and tensions were high.
The leaders of the Blood Tribe stepped up and met with the City Mayor Chris Spearman to discuss the events hoping to suppress the backlash.
The Tribe released a statement expressing great concern for the victim and says the tribe does not condone violence.
“Despite the accused being from the tribe, the incident should not be a reflection of every one from the reserve.
It’s unfortunate that this is happening because the Blood Tribe and the city of Lethbridge have been working to develop a positive relationship,” said Rick Tailfeathers Communications Director for the Blood Tribe.
As the Blood Tribe has a historic presence in Lethbridge they want to maintain their good neighbour relationship.
Also residents of the city also wanted to reach out and show support.
From this societal turmoil a group was formed in the city. People wanted to take a stand together and bring about awareness and understanding.
Communities in Unity is a grassroots organization of members of various backgrounds and organizations throughout the city.
Members are dedicated to celebrating and supporting diversity in Lethbridge and the surrounding area.
The group hosted a round dance at the University of Lethbridge and Galt Gardens on Oct. 14 which Mayor Spearman attended.
“We don’t want to see any more violence occur because of this incident and we want to take a negative situation and have a positive outcome.
That’s why we started this discussion,” said Lori Brave Rock, Communities in Unity spokesperson.
The group also attended the candle light vigil held in the victim’s honour at Henderson Park the same evening.
This incident comes just weeks after the Sisters in Spirit vigil for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women was held across Canada.
This shows that violence against women knows no race. When one member of society is attacked organizers feel the community must stand together in unity and understanding.
