EGADZ is inviting the public to come and honor the lives of 173 individuals who lost their life to the sex trade. The 23rd annual Day of Mourning presented by the EGADZ Operation help and youth committee’s honours the women, men and children who tragically lost their life through exploitation and involvement in the sex trade.

This event takes place every August 14th as it marks the anniversary of the murder of a 14-year-old girl involved in the sex trade in Calgary, Alberta. The Day of Mourning includes prayers, a candlelight vigil, soup with bannock and a march through an area of the city where the sex-trade is most prolific.

EGADZ says, Together, we can create a feeling of hope, dignity and self-respect out of these tragedies by affirming our commitment and concern for our victims, ensuring their families and friends know they are a part of a concerned and compassionate community.

EGADZ Operation Help Advisors and Youth Committee are very devoted to the annual Day of Mourning as they have all been affected by the people whose lives have been lost. They organize this event every year to remember the victims and to provide support to the families left behind and to give strength back to the community.

The day helps educate people about the root causes of the sex trade, while educating high-risk youth about the dangers involved.

It has been well recognized and welcomes between 200-400 people from the public as well as officials from the City of Saskatoon, Government of Saskatchewan and federal government, along with Aboriginal chiefs and elders.

The event will get underway tonight (sun), August 14th at Pleasant Hill Park beginning at 6:30. There will be Butterflies on the fence and signage all around the park.