Moose Hide Campaign Recognition Day

Summary#

This bill creates an official day of recognition in Manitoba called Moose Hide Campaign Day. Its goal is to support an Indigenous-led movement that asks men and boys to help end violence against women, children, and gender-diverse people.

• Sets the third Thursday in May each year as Moose Hide Campaign Day across Manitoba.
• Recognizes the Moose Hide Campaign’s focus on men and boys as allies in preventing gender-based violence.
• Encourages learning, healing, and open talks in families, workplaces, schools, and communities.
• Promotes wearing the moose hide pin as a personal pledge to respect and protect women and children.
• Takes effect once the law is formally approved; it does not create a new holiday or day off.

What it means for you#

• Residents

  • You may see events, talks, or ceremonies each May about preventing gender-based violence.
  • You can choose to wear a moose hide pin to show your personal pledge.
  • No change to your work or school schedule; this is a day of recognition, not a day off.

• Schools and youth groups

  • May hold age-appropriate lessons or activities on respect, healthy relationships, and safety.
  • Opportunity to involve boys and young men as allies in ending violence.

• Employers and workplaces

  • May host awareness events, invite speakers, or encourage staff to wear pins.
  • Can use the day to refresh policies and training on respect and safety at work.

• Community and Indigenous organizations

  • A set date each year to plan campaigns, gatherings, and healing circles.
  • More public attention may help outreach and partnership efforts.

• Provincial and local governments

  • May issue statements or support awareness activities.
  • No new legal duties or enforcement powers are created by this bill.

Expenses#

No publicly available information.

Proponents' View#

• Raises public awareness of gender-based violence and keeps the issue in the spotlight each year.
• Supports an Indigenous-led, community-based movement with a strong record of engaging people.
• Invites men and boys to be part of the solution, which supporters say is key to lasting change.
• Encourages simple, visible actions—like wearing a pin—that can spark learning and conversation.
• Helps schools and workplaces plan regular education and prevention activities.

Opponents' View#

• Mainly symbolic; does not fund services or create new protections for those facing violence.
• Risk of “checking the box” without investing in shelters, counseling, or justice system supports.
• Some worry event costs or staff time could add up for schools and local groups.
• Concern that focusing on one campaign or day may overlook other approaches or needs.
• Skepticism that awareness alone will lead to fewer incidents without broader policy changes.