Hundreds of community members gathered in Regina on Friday for an annual barbecue honouring Tamra Keepness, who has been missing for 22 years. The event, organized by local advocates, aims to keep public attention on the case and support the Keepness family.
Event Draws Large Crowd
The barbecue, held at a park in Regina, featured food, music, and speeches from community leaders and family members. Organizers reported that attendance was strong, with many participants wearing orange ribbons to symbolize remembrance.
Tamra Keepness was five years old when she disappeared from her Regina home in July 2004. Despite extensive searches and investigations, no trace of her has been found. Her case remains one of Saskatchewan's most high-profile missing person cases.
Community Support and Calls for Action
Speaking at the event, a family member said: “We are grateful for everyone who comes out year after year. It shows that Tamra is not forgotten and that we still demand answers.” According to organizers, the barbecue also serves as a fundraiser to support ongoing search efforts and awareness campaigns.
The gathering comes as police continue to review the case. In 2024, the Regina Police Service announced they were re-examining evidence using new forensic technology. However, no major breakthroughs have been reported.
Impact on Missing Persons Advocacy
Advocates say the annual event is crucial for keeping missing Indigenous women and girls in the public eye. Tamra Keepness is Indigenous, and her case highlights broader issues of violence and systemic neglect faced by Indigenous communities.
“We need to keep pressure on authorities to never give up,” said an organizer. “Every year we gather, we send a message that these lives matter.” The barbecue has become a symbol of resilience and hope for the community.
As of 2026, Tamra Keepness remains missing, but her family and supporters vow to continue the search. The annual barbecue will return next year, organizers confirmed.
