Thunder Bay, ON – The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) wishes to congratulate Mary Simon on her appointment as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General.
"Having an Indigenous woman appointed the position of Governor General is a much-needed sign of a shifting Canadian society. At this time in Canada when we're all struggling to redefine what Canada stands for Mary Simon can lead us by using Indigenous tradition to envision a new and better way forward as a nation." – Dawn Lavell-Harvard, President ONWA
Mary Simon (Ningiukudluk) is an Inuk born in Kangisualuujjuaq, Nunavik (Quebec). She is an advocate for Inuit rights and culture in Canada. She has represented the Inuit to the Canadian government and the United Nations, including work that led to the Inuit people’s inclusion in the Constitution in 1982. Mary Simon’s has dedicated her life to working and advocating for Indigenous peoples. Her accomplishments and leadership make her an excellent role model, as she truly understands that restoring culture is central to restoring Indigenous communities.
ONWA has had the honour of working with Mary Simon on the Indigenous Women's Safety Table, convened in late 2020. This table brings together Indigenous women from across Canada with expertise on Missing and Murdered Women and Girls.
ONWA is proud to celebrate the voice and leadership of Mary Simon.
For more information:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca
-30-