
Hamilton, New Zealand – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA), alongside members of ONWA’s Board of Directors and Youth Council, is attending the 70th National Conference of the Māori Women’s Welfare League (MWWL) from October 9-13, 2024, in Hamilton, New Zealand.
“We are honoured to build stronger relations with our Māori sisters,” said Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO of ONWA. “Given the current international climate, coming together as an international community with Indigenous women at the forefront is critical. Sharing, listening, and learning from one another is essential to build safe communities. This is how change will happen.”
During the Conference, the MWWL and ONWA will sign a relationship agreement, the Manaakitanga and Gizhewaadizi Agreement, symbolizing a commitment to working together in ways that are grounded in culture and are mutually beneficial for the safety, health, and wellbeing of Indigenous women, girls, and families in their respective territories. The agreement represents a united effort to enhance the lives, safety, and inherent rights of Indigenous women and girls.
“We are honoured to stand in solidarity with the MWWL. We know the power of relationships, learning, and sharing. We are reclaiming our ways of knowing and being,” – Krystal Brant, ONWA Board President.
ONWA is guided by Indigenous women’s voices, with its membership and Board of Directors setting the organization’s path. ONWA’s Strategic Picture directs the organization to amplify Indigenous women’s voices on the international stage. Indigenous peoples have inherent rights to participate in decision-making processes on the issues that impact their lives, families, and communities. This is intrinsically linked to their broader rights to self-determination, autonomy, and self-government, as affirmed by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). This collaborative relationship between ONWA and the MWWL will strengthen advocacy towards these efforts within the international space including the United Nations.
ONWA invites all members of society to join in the collective effort to advance the rights and leadership of Indigenous women, youth, and girls both at home and worldwide.
Follow ONWA’s MWWL journey at: onwa.ca/mwwl70
For more information and media inquiries, contact:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca
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