Byron Watson is a 23-year-old who went missing from the community of Maple Creek over five months ago, which has come together to honour him.

Watson’s disappearance shook Nekaneet First Nation and the town of Maple Creek, both of which gathered on Sunday, national Red Dress Day, to show they had not forgotten him. Members of Watson’s family organized a walk around Maple Creek, bringing together the two communities to which he once belonged.

Lori Watson, Byron Watson’s Aunt, played an important role in organizing the event.

“My sister Arlene wanted to honour her son who went missing; she just didn’t want people to forget about him,” she said. “We’re really happy with all the support people have shown, like even for them showing up, walking with us, and honouring Byron.”

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Beginning at the place where Byron Watson was last seen, the walk commenced after a traditional prayer and smudging ceremony. Over 100 participants joined in the walk, many donning red clothing with Watson’s photo for Red Dress Day, the concurrent national event which raises awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

Railey Mosquito, another aunt of Byron Watson, joined in on the walk and spoke to the level of participation.

“It’s a really proud moment as a community member,” stated Mosquito. “It’s nice to see the movement, and that he’s bringing awareness to this subject as well because we don’t want him to feel like he’s forgotten.”

The event concluded with a barbecue, serving hotdogs and hamburgers to many of the walk’s participants.

Anyone with any information regarding the 23-year-old's whereabouts is asked to contact Maple Creek RCMP or Crime Stoppers to remain anonymous.

A Facebook group has been created to share information on the case and can be accessed here.

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