ONWA at AMO 2026
Updated: Aug 19
The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is attending the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Conference from August 16-19, 2026, in Ottawa.
Highlights
Here are some highlights from our time there (click to jump to section):
What is the AMO Conference?
The AMO Conference is the annual conference organized by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO). It's the premier event for Ontario's municipal sector, bringing together elected officials and staff from all 444 municipalities to discuss key issues, learn from each other, and advocate for solutions to challenges facing local governments. The conference includes sessions, networking opportunities, and the chance to meet with provincial ministers.
Why We Are Attending the Conference
ONWA is attending to ensure Indigenous women’s voices, perspectives and solutions are included in local decision-making, and our unique needs are considered in policy and program development.
We are building and strengthening relationships across government - together we can create safer more prosperous communities for all.
At the Conference - Day 1
Monday, August 17, 2026
Today, the 2026 Association of Municipalities Ontario (AMO) Conference kicked off in Ottawa, bringing together thousands of municipal leaders and community partners from across the province, as well as provincial Ministers.
ONWA is attending to listen, learn and lead. We look forward to meeting with Ministers and municipal partners to advance Indigenous women’s safety, leadership and rights.
At the Conference - Day 2
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
At the AMO Conference, ONWA’s CEO met with provincial ministers to discuss how Ontario can collaborate with Indigenous women’s organizations to prioritize Indigenous women’s safety, advance Indigenous women’s leadership, and prevent involvement in systems such as child welfare and justice.
Today, as part of the 2026 AMO Conference, ONWA’s CEO, Cora McGuire-Cyrette, and Minwaashin Lodge (ONWA Member), Executive Director, Mary Daoust, participated in a concurrent session sharing wise practices for municipal collaboration with urban Indigenous organizations.
ONWA continued to meet with government partners to advance shared priorities and ensure Indigenous women are at the table when decisions are made.
