Good morning, Langley!
Today, our community recognizes Red Dress Day, a National Day of remembrance and activism honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+).
Since 2010, when Métis artist Jaime Black created the REDress Project, red dresses have become powerful symbols of remembrance, hung in trees and public spaces to make visible those who have been lost.
We invite you to join the Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society's Walk at Douglas Park (20550 Douglas Crescent) from 11am to 1pm today, where our community will gather in solidarity to honor those affected by this ongoing crisis. More information is listed below.
As we honor this important day of remembrance and action, here's a look at other news shaping our community today.
Local Langley News
Happening Today: Red Dress Day March at Douglas Park (11am-1pm) to Honor Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women
The Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society invites community members to join their Annual MMIWG2S+ March on May 5, 2025, from 11:00am to 1:00pm at Douglas Park (20550 Douglas Crescent) in Langley.
This important gathering raises awareness about the disproportionate violence faced by Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people while honoring those who have been lost or remain missing.
The event highlights an ongoing crisis rooted in systemic issues affecting Indigenous communities and offers an opportunity for all residents to stand in solidarity.
Vigil in Langley City Honors Vancouver Attack Victims
A solemn gathering took place in Langley City as community members assembled to remember those lost in the tragic Lapu Lapu Day incident.
The vigil provided a space for residents to express solidarity with Vancouver's Filipino community after an SUV drove into the cultural street festival, claiming 11 lives.
The emotional ceremony featured candles, prayers, and shared grief as participants emphasized the importance of standing together in difficult times.
Township Crackdown on Unsafe Commercial Vehicles
Langley Township has launched an aggressive campaign targeting unsafe commercial vehicles on local roads.
The joint operation between police and bylaw officers resulted in multiple trucks and trailers being towed after failing safety inspections.
Officials cited concerns about brake failures, unsecured loads, and unlicensed operators as primary motivations for the enforcement blitz, which aims to reduce the risk of accidents on Langley's increasingly busy roadways.
Rat Pack-Style Gala to Benefit Child Mentorship Program
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Langley is throwing it back to the Sinatra era with their upcoming casino-themed fundraiser.
The organization's 5th annual gala will feature Rat Pack-inspired entertainment, gaming tables, and classic cocktails, all to support their vital youth mentorship programs.
Organizers hope to surpass last year's fundraising total, with all proceeds dedicated to matching local children with positive role models who can make lasting differences in their lives.
Langley Walk Celebrates 63 Years with Star Wars Theme
May the 4th brought a special twist to Langley's longest-running community fitness event as the 63rd annual Langley Walk embraced a Star Wars theme.
Participants of all ages donned costumes from the beloved franchise while completing the scenic route through local neighborhoods.
The multi-generational event continues to promote active living while building community connections, with this year's attendance numbers suggesting the force remains strong with this Langley tradition.
TransLink Plan Wins Approval from Langley Mayors
Langley's political leadership is celebrating TransLink's newly approved transportation plan, which includes several long-requested service improvements for the region. Both Township and City mayors expressed particular satisfaction with the addition of a new route to Gloucester, addressing a community need that has persisted for years. The comprehensive plan promises enhanced connectivity between Langley and neighboring municipalities, potentially easing congestion on major arteries while providing more accessible public transit options for residents without vehicles.
Regional Vancouver / Fraser Valley News
South Surrey-White Rock Conservative MP Defeated After Refusing to Address Husband's Islamophobic Comments
Working-class Muslim residents in South Surrey-White Rock successfully organized against MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay, who repeatedly ignored their concerns about her husband's deeply problematic anti-Muslim rhetoric.
Conservative MLA Brent Chapman's comments describing Palestinians as "little inbred walking, talking, breathing time bombs" exemplify how right-wing politicians normalize bigotry while refusing accountability to marginalized communities.
The election results demonstrate how grassroots community organizing can challenge systemic discrimination, with Liberal candidate Ernie Klassen pledging meaningful engagement with the Muslim community that had been denied representation.
Sun-Soaked Shakespeare: Vancouver's Bard on the Beach Returns with Mediterranean "Much Ado"
Bard on the Beach kicks off its 36th season with a vibrant Mediterranean-inspired take on "Much Ado About Nothing," transforming the comedy into a lively house party set against vineyard vibes and stone villas.
Director Johnna Wright pairs with Canadian playwright Erin Shields to add fresh touches to the classic tale of Beatrice and Benedick's witty romance alongside the dramatic misadventures of Hero and Claudio.
Running June 10 to September 20 at Sen̓áḵw/Vanier Park, the production offers everything from fireworks nights to family matinees, with tickets starting at $35.
Surrey Firefighters Battle Two-Alarm Commercial Blaze
Dramatic scenes unfolded Sunday morning as Surrey firefighters responded to a significant fire at a commercial structure.
The two-alarm blaze sent thick black smoke billowing across the neighborhood, requiring multiple engine companies and specialized equipment to contain. Crews utilized defensive tactics to prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings while contending with hazardous materials concerns.
An investigation into the cause is underway, with initial assessments suggesting substantial structural damage but fortunately no reported injuries.
National Canadian News
Red Dress Day: Indigenous Communities Fight for Justice While Teaching Self-Protection Against Systemic Violence
Indigenous communities are marking Red Dress Day with education initiatives highlighting the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous women, with statistics showing their homicide rate is six times higher than non-Indigenous women.
The symbolic red dresses hung in public spaces make "the invisible visible," calling spirits home while demanding justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit+ People.
At Oneida Nation, organizers are focused on empowering young Indigenous girls with self-defense training, recognizing that while they "can't change the outside world," they can ensure their community members know "we are loved and we are worthy."
Danielle Smith Escalates Tensions with Ottawa
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has intensified her confrontational stance toward the federal government following the Liberal election victory.
In a series of provocative moves, Smith announced plans to challenge Ottawa's net-zero electricity regulations in court while simultaneously exploring options for a provincial "separation referendum."
Despite these dramatic political maneuvers, a planned separatist demonstration at the Legislature attracted just ten protesters, suggesting a disconnect between the government's rhetoric and actual public sentiment on independence.
Open Letter Urges Bold Governance from Prime Minister Carney
A compelling open letter addressed to Prime Minister Mark Carney calls for unprecedented political courage in the wake of his narrow election victory.
The letter encourages Carney to consider three significant steps: granting the NDP official party status despite their reduced seat count, forming a national unity government that includes opposition members, and prioritizing economic issues while remaining attentive to critical social justice concerns.
The writer argues these actions would address Canada's political polarization and create a more resilient government in the face of external pressures.
Indigenous Cultural Importance of Flower Moon Highlighted
A recent RadioLabour report explores the deep significance of the Flower Moon (Waawaaskone Giizis) in Indigenous cultures across Canada.
The broadcast features insights from Charmaine St. Germain, a UFCW 401 labour relations officer, who explains how this seasonal marker honors the return of spring blooms and the healing energy of nature.
The report emphasizes how traditional Indigenous knowledge about seasonal transitions continues to inform community practices and spiritual connections to the land, offering valuable perspectives that contrast with purely calendar-based understandings of time.
Jewish Labour Committee Controversy Sparks Debate
The Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs (CIJA) has revived the dormant Jewish Labour Committee of Canada, prompting criticism from progressive Jewish organizations.
Critics argue that unlike the original CJLC, which advocated for broad social justice causes from the 1930s to 1970s, the new incarnation appears primarily focused on targeting union leaders who express pro-Palestinian sentiments.
The controversy highlights tensions within Canadian Jewish communities about Israel-Palestine advocacy and raises questions about how historical organizations' legacies should be represented in contemporary political contexts.
Sports News
🏒 Canucks Draft Position Could Be Valuable Trade Asset
The Vancouver Canucks should consider leveraging their upcoming NHL draft pick to acquire an established center, according to hockey analysts.
With questions surrounding Elias Pettersson's capabilities as a true number one center and concerns about Filip Chytil's injury history, the team faces important decisions about strengthening their forward core.
While developing prospects through the draft remains important, the window for contention may require more immediate solutions through strategic trades that could address the team's current roster gaps.
⚽ Whitecaps Defeat Real Salt Lake Amid Ownership Questions
The Vancouver Whitecaps secured an impressive 2-1 victory over Real Salt Lake Saturday night, showcasing their value as a franchise at a pivotal moment.
With the Whitecaps officially up for sale and RSL having recently been sold, the match offered an interesting comparison between the clubs' respective financial and competitive positions.
Despite some organizational challenges behind the scenes, the Whitecaps' strong on-field performance demonstrated the team's potential appeal to prospective buyers looking to invest in MLS.
🏒 Aquilini Family Denies Canucks Sale Rumors
The Vancouver Canucks have announced that co-owner Paolo Aquilini has resigned from his positions with the team, while firmly stating the franchise is not for sale. The organizational shakeup has fueled speculation about potential ownership changes, but the Aquilini family has moved quickly to dispel such rumors. The timing of the announcement, following the team's playoff success, has raised eyebrows throughout the hockey world, though the ownership group maintains this is simply an internal restructuring rather than a prelude to selling the club.
⚽ Whitecaps Prepare for CONCACAF Champions Cup Opponents
With their historic CONCACAF Champions Cup final matchup now set, the Vancouver Whitecaps are studying up on Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul. Vancouver players and coaching staff reveal varying levels of familiarity with their championship opponents – defender Tristan Blackmon watched portions of Cruz Azul's semifinal, Tate Johnson caught highlight packages, while coach Jesper Sørensen chose family time over scouting. Despite the different approaches, the squad remains focused on their immediate MLS fixtures before turning full attention to the championship opportunity that awaits them.