Search Results

ONWA's She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin: 5th Annual Conference is happening January 22-24, 2024 at the Sheraton Fallsview in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Stay tuned for up to the minute updates by exploring this blog or following ONWA on social media: onwa.ca/social Highlights Overview of She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin Conference Read the Press Release In the News Day 1 - Grandmothers Day 2 - Mothers & Aunties Day 3 - Daughters Overview What is the She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin Conference? Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin (she is wise in ways of life) captures the voices and perspectives of Indigenous women, that seek to change the narrative of violence, through collective cultural and gendered empowerment. It acknowledges the wisdom and intelligence of women, as well as the life-giving power she carries within her. ONWA is committed to creating safe spaces for Indigenous women’s storytelling that are culturally grounded, gender-based, and trauma-informed. This training will build upon the work of Indigenous women; retelling a story that has largely gone untold and replenishing our bundles with wise practices that will support efforts to build Indigenous women’s leadership. In doing so, we envision empowered women, strong families, and safer communities. Learners can incorporate these wise practices into their work while continuing to support Indigenous women and their families. 2024 Theme The theme for this year’s conference is honouring the roles Grandmothers, Mothers, Aunties, and Daughters play in preserving and protecting Mother Earth. She is us and we are her. When she is well, we are well. Women are the sacred carriers of water, without water life is not sustainable. The knowledge shared throughout the conference will enrich participant’s understanding of the vital historical roles Indigenous women have played and continue to play in sustaining life on Mother Earth. This year we acknowledge, honour, and celebrate Indigenous women as they take up their leadership roles protecting Mother Earth for generations to come. Click to read the Press Release In the News Cora McGuire-Cyrette: She Is Wise Conference | Superior Morning with Mary-Jean Cormier | Live Radio | CBC Listen ONWA CEO Cora Mcguire-Cyrette discusses being a disruptor, making waves, and being leader. Click here to listen. Aired: January 25, 2024 'Be disruptors' is the message at 5th annual She Is Wise Indigenous women's conference Ontario Native Women's Association held the conference in Niagara Falls, Jan. 22 - 24 | Lisa-Marie Esquega | CBC News. Click here to read. Released: January 26, 2024 Welcome & Pre-Registration: Sunday, January 21, 2024 Excited to welcome all participants to the empowering She is Wise Conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario!  Let's celebrate the strength and wisdom of Indigenous women, fostering connections, and inspiring positive change. Together, we're shaping a brighter future!  #SheIsWise2024 #ONWA A heartfelt chi miigwetch (big thank you) to Joe, Ariel, and Lance from the Six Nations Smoke Dancers for gracing ONWA with their incredible presence and leading us in traditional Haudenosaunee dances, including the powerful Social Women's Song. It was an absolute honor to have them guide us through these meaningful movements during the early registration for the #sheiswise2024 Conference. Their talent, wisdom, and generosity filled the space, leaving a lasting impact on all of us. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to learn from such dedicated individuals who share not only their artistry but also the rich cultural heritage behind each dance. Day 1: Monday, January 22, 2024 - Grandmothers "She Is Wise is about affirming and acknowledging of greatness, and celebrating our greatness. You are magnificent." - Joan Riggs “Your wisdom remains the cornerstone of building stronger and more resilient communities” -Chief Sherri-Lyn Hill, Six Nations of the Grand River “I was responsible for my healing path forwards. As I got older, I realized I had a fire in my soul. ... Wisdom, we already have it, it is already inside of us (called Elder, she told me). The true gifts are already inside us, and they are ...” - Chief Claire Sault, Mississauga's of the New Credit First Nation If we are going to change the world, it we are going to make a difference. We need to begin with understanding. We need to recognize the culture, encourage them to grow. What does reconciliation mean to you? I answered with 1 word: empowerment." -Minister Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions The She Is Wise Conference is so important, it is integral to so many of our cultures and traditions. Our knowledge and solutions are needed now more than ever”. - Alana Roberts, Youth Director, ONWA "Indigenous women lead differently. We lead from the heart. We lead from a community perspective, from the ground up. Being a leader is a difficult role, and an important one." - Cora McGuire Cyrette, CEO, ONWA "I think it is our responsibilities as Grandmothers is to instill a love of Mother Nature in our children and grandchildren." - Pearl Gabona, Métis "To be a leader, you have to have followers. You have to role model what it means to lead, you have to be worth following. Otherwise, you are just out for an afternoon walk." - Jan Longboat, Mohawk We are creating art pieces depicting our collective experiences of receiving knowledge from the grandmothers through life's journey during the Honoring and Celebrating our Knowledge Keeper Grandmothers activity at #sheiswise2024 conference. “Keep doing the work, because that is the medicine. It is what helps us be well. [...] Traditionally, women had certain roles in the community. It was the responsibility of the mothers to look after the family. It was the old ladies, the grandmothers, to look over the health and wellbeing of the community as a whole." - Keynote Speaker Kim Anderson, Firebrand Grannies: Looking to our Past to Shape our Future, #sheiswise2024 Conference Chi miigwetch (big thank you) to Bianca, Harmony Blackbird, Kendal White, and Becky Hill for sharing your meaningful stories during the Lifecycle Reflection activity at #sheiswise2024 Conference. “One our greatest gift’s is to remember. To remember our stories. To have our memories, because we were meant to be in those places, to receive those teachings. […] We can not talk about one thing, because in our language we understand that everything is connected. […] We are all a part of this puzzle. We each have something that helps make this vision complete.” - Norma Jacobs, Water Teachings and Finding our Identity, #sheiswise2024 Conference In 2021, ONWA undertook a small study to explore the experiences of Indigenous women entrepreneurs in Ontario. Read the Heart Work: Experiences of Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs (2021) report, available on: https://www.onwa.ca/reports “Representation matters more than I can even understand. […] You feel proud when you see your people succeeding. […] We don’t have to know everything. We can learn as we are building and growing. We can get there if we have the confidence to jump in and try.” - Keynote Speaker, Jenn Harper, Cheekbone Beauty, at the #sheiswise2024 Conference Indigenous Women’s Economic Development Forum Chi miigwetch (big thank you) to Karen Bird, Michelle Derosier, & Samantha Loney for instilling wisdom during the Panel at the #sheiswise2024 Conference Indigenous Women’s Economic Development Forum “There is a struggle in trying to balance the two worlds of capitalism and my Indigenous values and still grow a business. […] We can do both.” - Michelle Derosier “Our ceremony is the only way our people are going to heal. When I speak to women about when they began their healing journey, it all starts with ceremony. Ceremony will be at the core.” - Karen Bird “If you feel called to do something, do it. Follow your heart, trust in yourself, and just go do it. No one really know what they are doing, no one is ever fully prepared.” - Samantha Loney She Is Wise Conference Day 1 key take aways from participants : Connect to the land to continue our healing and truth. Be a disrupter. Take up space. Make waves. Be leaders. Creation is always speaking to us. Language is culture, and culture is language. Speak to your Elders. Elders carry important knowledge to share. You are your own medicine. Stay native. Women are leaders. Sharing your life experience – positive and negative and everything is between – is healing, and healing is medicine. Keep the storytelling alive. We are role models for the future generations. True leaders are authentic and following their truth, it is what makes them worth following. We were honoured to have artists Devon Kerslake and Liisa Sorsa of Think Link Graphics creating a mural at the #sheiswise2024 Conference. Day 2: Tuesday, January 23, 2024 - Mothers & Aunties “I should have done nothing in my childhood, I realize now, but hang out with my grandmother. […] She really shaped my understanding of what it means to be an Ojibway person.” - Dr. Brenda Child, Holding Our World Together: Ojibwe Women in the Past and Future Keynote “We should write the history of Indigenous people from the perspective of Indigenous people. […] I want to hear native people’s voices. How did they experience history?” - Dr. Brenda Child, Holding Our World Together: Ojibwe Women in the Past and Future Keynote “We are all helpers here. We are all reaching for something. However your spirit emerges in your work, you are a helper. […] Don’t check yourself at the door when you are doing your work. Stand for who you are.” - Dr. Kathy Absolon, Reconnecting to land and life in how we come to know Keynote “My mother taught us how to navigate. How to walk the land and remember the landmarks to find our ways home. […] Our ancestors left us many landmarks. We have to pay attention and work to figure them out, the land will lead the way.” - Dr. Kathy Absolon, Reconnecting to land and life in how we come to know Keynote “Sit at your own fire. Sit with yourself. Walk through your fire. Learn what you are made of. Make mistakes; because as flawed as you are, Creator does not make mistakes.” - Dr. Kathy Absolon, Reconnecting to land and life in how we come to know Keynote Heidi Metcalfe and Lynda Brown, Siqiniup Qiluata (Sunsdrum), Inuit Throat Singers at 5th Annual She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin Conference 2024. As part of the event, Siqiniup Qiluata taught the audience how to do some basic Inuit Throat Singing. This video features a couple of the brave participants. (Watch in playlist above, or at: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLglECoax3u41KTIFbTirGiY4xCWw2v0bf ) She Is Wise Conference Day 2 key take aways from participants : We need to reclaim our connection to the land, Mother Earth is waiting for us. Even if we don’t know her, and are tentative to reach out, She knows us. We are not from the earth, we are of the earth. Watch and listen, know your landmarks. You question keep you on the path to learning, they lead you on your journey to knowing yourself. It is fun to learn new things. It is like school but way more interesting. (Youth, age 6) To connect to yourself you need to connect to land to connect to spirit. You have to get out of you comfort zone to make connections and make change happen. Culture guides us to know where we belong and who we are. Mental health is a big factor of what happens to ourselves and our people. Self-care is important. We have to hep ourselves, to best help others. Women’s safety covers all stages to life. It is very powerful thing when everyone feels safe enough to share. We will survive because we have each other to help. We were honoured to have artists Devon Kerslake and Liisa Sorsa of Think Link Graphics creating a mural at the #sheiswise2024 Conference. Day 3: Wednesday, January, 2024 - Daughters We are getting warmed up for our youthful day as we begin Day 3: Daughters at #sheiswise2024 Conference. Click to watch the She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin Conference video playlist. “Youth voices have the most powerful and meaningful things to say. Being young in that space, you don’t know how many times I have heard: ‘she’s just a kid, why should I care what she has to say’.” - Autumn Peltier “The most powerful messages that you are going to hear is going to come from the young people. Young people rarely will raise their voice at government platforms. When they do it is important to pay attention because it is a sign that something is wrong.” - Autumn Peltier “Being connected to Mother Earth is one of the most important things we can be. As Indigenous people we have a role, responsibility, and connection to Mother Earth. […] Our roles are Indigenous people is to protect our Mother Earth and our land. We speak up for the things that can not speak up for themselves. As Indigenous people we are responsible to speak up for the water, and the fish, and the animals, and the land.” - Autumn Peltier “Heal the healer, and a healer in every home. I bring that to you from my teachers.” - Makanalani Gomes “When we are disconnected from Mother Earth, when she is sick, we can not connect with ourselves. […] What was lost was not just the land, it was the connect. […] The land is our chief, and we are its servants. In this life we are here to serve.” - Makanalani Gomes “A conference like this, it something I who like to take back to Hawaii. […] We are an Indigenous family, no matter where we are in the world. Collaborating, best practices, sharing what is working and what isn’t, and working together [is what is needed].” - Makanalani Gomes “Climate change makes it sound like a natural thing that happens. I use climate destruction, because it better reflects the human failing, and the failure of our responsibilities. That is the truth of what is happening. It implicates us in the harm. We are tied up in that destruction.” - Riley Yesno “She is called Mother Earth, because of the implications of the relationships. It is not just a descriptor, it is a tie into how we are meant to treat each other.” - Riley Yesno “It is an obligation to spend time dreaming of the better future. We spend so long caught up in the day to day, we need to take time to laugh and dream. It is important to be brave. Being brave is a call for all organizations.” - Riley Yesno Highlights from sharing letters to honour and celebrate the youth of today: You are loved. You are beautiful. You matter. We support your future. We want to see you grow. Always remember you have generational strengths embedded in you. Seeing your strength and willpower encourages us to heal and restores our faith for the next 7 generations. Not everything is black and white. There are beautiful colours. Bright overwhelming colours. Dull scary colours. I am trying my best to teach you how to embrace these colours. They will create beautiful pictures. You don’t need permission to take up space or be yourself. Your safety is important and so is your truth. The Kanienkeha word for family is Ahkwatsire. The root of that word is Ohienha or fire. We all have a family fire, but you also have a fire inside you. That fire is sacred and important. […] When your fire burns brights, your family fire grows bigger, making our nation fire bigger. Those fires form togetherness as one to keep our confederacy fire strong and bright. Female empowerment is the heartbeat of progress. Rejection is a fact of life. Don’t let it define you. When someone says you can’t use it as fuel to make sure you can. I’m sorry you have to pick up the pieces of who we used to be as people. […] It is a great responsibility and seems like an impossible task. But we are not looking for perfect solutions, perfect answers, or a perfect you. Come as you are, and do what you can. Speak up even if your voice shakes. Be brave. Be passionate. Be loving. Be strong. Be LOUD. Be leaders. Be you. Love the grandmothers, mothers, aunties, daughters and all the participants at the She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin: 5th Annual Conference “It is important to lead the way. It is more important to open those doors for other to walk through.” - Keynote Speaker, Emma Morrison, Miss World Canada (2022) Chi miigwetch to Sara Kae for sharing the gift of her beautiful, inspiring voice at the She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin: 5th Annual Conference. Chi miigwetch to Alicia Kayley for sharing the gift of her powerful, heartfelt voice at the She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin: 5th Annual Conference “Listening to the youth today, my hope has been restored. It is your voices and strength in this room that has created this safe space. It is you, because of your strength and the choices you make that She Is Wise is possible. [...] Elder Levinia Brown has summed up this entire event when she gifted us with the teaching of ‘I am going home healed’. Me too. Matna.” - Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO, ONWA Safe travels and see you later.

Niagara Falls, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association’s (ONWA)’s 5th Annual She Is Wise Nibwaakaa Inaadisiwin Conference takes place January 22-24 at the Sheraton Fallsview in Niagara Falls, ON. The She Is Wise Annual Conference represents ONWA’s commitment to strengthening and building Indigenous Women's Leadership. The theme for this year’s conference is honouring the roles Grandmothers, Mothers, Aunties, and Daughters play in preserving and protecting Mother Earth. She is us and we are her. When she is well, we are well. Women are the sacred carriers of water, without water life is not sustainable. The knowledge shared throughout the conference will enrich participant’s understanding of the vital historical roles Indigenous women have played and continue to play in sustaining life on Mother Earth. This year we acknowledge, honour, and celebrate Indigenous women as they take up their leadership roles protecting Mother Earth for generations to come. Nibwaakaa Inaadiziwin (she is wise in ways of life) captures the voices and perspectives of Indigenous women, that seek to change the narrative of violence, through collective cultural and gendered empowerment. It acknowledges the wisdom and intelligence of women, as well as the life-giving power she carries within her. ONWA is committed to creating safe spaces for Indigenous women’s storytelling that are culturally grounded, gender-based, and trauma-informed. This training will build upon the work of Indigenous women; retelling a story that has largely gone untold and replenishing our bundles with wise practices that will support efforts to build Indigenous women’s leadership. In doing so, we envision empowered women, strong families, and safer communities. Learners can incorporate these wise practices into their work while continuing to support Indigenous women and their families. Conference Highlights will include: Knowledge Keepers Panel, Jan Longboat, Mohawk; Levinia Brown, Inuit; Ma-nee Chacaby, Anishinaabe; & Pearl Gabona, Métis Keynote Speaker – Firebrand Grannies: Looking to our Past to Shape the Future, Kim Anderson Water Teaching and Finding our Identity, Norma Jacobs Indigenous Women’s Economic Development Forum - Keynote Speaker, Jenn Harper, Cheekbone Beauty; Panel, Karen Bird; Michelle Derosier; & Samantha Loney Keynote Speaker – Holding Our World Together: Ojibwe Women in the Past and Future, Dr. Brenda Child Keynote Speaker – Reconnecting to land and life in how we come to know, Dr. Kathy Absolon Inuit Throat singers, Siqiniup Qilauta (Sunsdrum): Heidi Metcalfe; & Lynda Brown “We are Guardians” Film Screening – A Journey of Hope Amidst Crisis Youth Panel, Autumn Peltier; Makanalani Gomes; Riley Yesno; & Ta’kaiya Blaney Keynote Speaker, Emma Morrison Alicia Kayley and Sara Kae Interview followed by vocal performance Keep up to date with this year’s She Is Wise Annual conference by following ONWA on social media onwa.ca/social or by visiting ONWA’s She Is Wise blog at: onwa.ca/post/sheiswise2024-blog For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Thunder Bay, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is saddened by the death of Jenna Ostberg, a young woman whose life was just beginning as she embraced her artistic skills and was “looked up to” for her style. ONWA will be following the Special Investigations Unit (SIU) investigation into the death of Jenna Ostberg. From the current publicly released information, this appears to be another situation where continuing systemic failures have put Indigenous women’s lives at risk. Indigenous women, like all people, have the fundamental right to be safe. Supporting and working alongside Indigenous women for over 50 years, ONWA knows all too well that many Indigenous women are not safe in their everyday lives. ONWA advocates for prevention-focused supports and services that ensure Indigenous women and their families are safe. ONWA calls on the broader Thunder Bay community to stand in solidarity and work with Indigenous leadership to prevent the further loss of young Indigenous people’s lives. ONWA encourages quick action through the development of an Indigenous Women’s Community Safety Plan for the City of Thunder Bay. We must act now. It will take everyone, working together, to address the systemic issues that Indigenous women and their families continue to face and that play a role in their lives being cut too short. ONWA recognizes that Indigenous women and girls are strong and resilient, despite the systemic, physical, and emotional violence that they have been subjected to and the multiple barriers they experience in their daily lives. ONWA awaits the outcomes of the SIU investigation. For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Toronto ON - The winter solstice marks the official release of the Ontario Native Women’s Association’s (ONWA) latest edition of the She Is Wise magazine. In this issue, we recognize and celebrate Indigenous women’s traditional knowledges and practices in health care and well-being. Indigenous women have been incorporating the importance of community care within their communities for hundreds of years. As leaders, Indigenous women have been pushing for health equity in Western health care systems through advocacy work and promotion of traditional healing practices. ONWA’s ninth edition of the She Is Wise publication highlights stories of mutual care, advocacy, Indigenous women’s wellness, and healing through art. Feature stories include: - Cover story featuring Ma-Nee Chacaby and Michelle Derosier, who share their story of caring for community, kindness, and the donation and receiving of a kidney. - Indigenous women in Canada who advocate for change in the Canadian health care system. - Indigenous women leaders have called for action in response to multiple deaths caused by systemic racism, including the recipient of ONWA’s 2023 Indigenous Woman of the Year Award, Francine Shimizu. - Traditional Indigenous midwives who have highlighted the importance and successes of traditional practices and care of Indigenous women and their children. ONWA recognizes the diligent work of Indigenous women utilizing their traditional knowledge and practices to ensure their communities receive the best health care. The work they do is driving change for all Indigenous peoples, promoting wellness and health equity across Turtle Island. We are proud to share these stories in this woven blanket of wise practice, celebrating Indigenous women’s innovative efforts in promoting shared well-being. To read the online version of the ninth edition of She Is Wise magazine go to: https://www.onwa.ca/she-is-wise-magazine For more information and media inquiries, contact:: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Thunder Bay, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is deeply saddened by the disappearance and recent discovery of deceased 14-year-old Mackenzie Moonias of Neskantaga, and we express our condolences to her family, friends, and community. As an Indigenous women’s organization informed by Indigenous matriarchal ways of knowing and being, we recognize the inherent gifts that every Indigenous child holds. We grieve the loss of Mackenzie alongside all those who knew her and mourn her bright future that was cut short. When we are confronted by a tragedy such as this, it emphasizes the critical need for Indigenous women and girls’ safety to be prioritized. While we do not fully understand the circumstances surrounding the tragic passing of Mackenzie, we are deeply concerned by the realities of systems that fail to protect Indigenous women and girls. In seeking to continue their education, Indigenous youth are forced to navigate the perils of attending high school in larger communities such as Thunder Bay. Indigenous youth’s lives are just as important as those of any other young people in Canada. ONWA continues to advocate for the implementation of the recommendations from the inquest into the deaths of seven First Nations youth in Thunder Bay. ONWA recognises that a multitude of systemic issues are directly related to the ongoing national crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two spirit people. It is every person’s responsibility to prevent and address this national crisis. “Mackenzie, you are seen and you are loved, we extend our deepest condolences to your loved ones. As a community, we in Thunder Bay need to do better to protect Indigenous women and girls.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA CEO For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Ottawa, ON – Today, on December 10th, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) recognizes the United Nation’s Human Rights Day. Together on this day, ONWA supports Indigenous women’s inherent right to safety. ONWA maintains that Indigenous women have the right to life and the right to be safe, which Article 3 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) affirms: “You have the right to live, and to live in freedom and safety.” However, through supporting and working alongside Indigenous women for more than 50 years, ONWA knows that many of the women in our communities are not safe to live their every day lives. “Basic human rights like safety, are often taken for granted against a backdrop of forgotten, hollow platitudes. Indigenous women and girls in Canada continue to endure violence on many levels, in search of the safety they should not have to demand. All levels of government need to support a strategy of safety planning for Indigenous women to end this ongoing injustice.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO ONWA As Canadians, we all have a lot of work to do to ensure that Indigenous women have the same equal access to rights as every other Canadian woman. It is our collective responsibility to change Indigenous women’s experience with violence in Canada. This year, ONWA’s priorities included amplifying the voices of Indigenous women and advocating for Indigenous women’s rights by participating in several international spaces hosted by the United Nations, including ONWA's contribution to the United Nations Universal Periodic Review. ONWA recognizes the importance of continuing to support Indigenous women to take up leadership roles in the family and community. This will further solidify the rights of Indigenous women to speak on our own behalf, to develop services that meet our needs, and to choose who represents us. ONWA’s report, Reconciliation with Indigenous Women, was written with 13 recommendations focusing on improving Indigenous women’s safety to end the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls crisis. To learn more about ONWA’s work with Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: · Reconciliation with Indigenous Women: Changing the Story of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (2020) Report · Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis (Turtle) model: https://www.onwa.ca/learning-resources-mmiwg · ONWA’s Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG) webpage For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Ottawa, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) would like to congratulate newly elected Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief, Cindy Woodhouse. ONWA recognizes that National Chief Woodhouse is another example of Indigenous women across Turtle Island continuing to reclaim and take up their inherent leadership roles. National Chief Woodhouse steps into her new role on familiar ground as the now former AFN Regional Chief for Manitoba. ONWA looks forward to building a relationship with National Chief Woodhouse in order to support the safety and prosperity of Indigenous women, their families and their communities.

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) is pleased to acknowledge the commitment of the Ontario government to ending violence against women. Today's announcement, of a new investment of $18.7M to address gender-based violence, with a focus on prevention, highlights the province's dedication to addressing the unique needs of Indigenous women and girls, contributing to the overall well-being of our communities. The new investment is part of Ontario’s $162 million agreement with the federal government through the National Action Plan to end Gender-Based Violence (GBV). The new GBV Strategy demonstrates an understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous women, and all women across the province. ONWA is optimistic about the positive impact and potential this Strategy will have on the safety and prosperity of our communities. "I would like to congratulation Minister Parsa, Minister Williams, and the Ontario government on their commitment to ending violence against Indigenous women," stated Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO of ONWA. "As the oldest and largest Indigenous women’s organization in Canada, ONWA has been working for over 50 years to empower, support, and end violence against Indigenous women.” ONWA looks forward to working in partnership with the government and other stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation of this new Strategy, creating lasting benefits for Indigenous women and their communities. Learn more about the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA): https://www.onwa.ca/about Learn more about the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) Programs and Services: https://www.onwa.ca/services Learn more about the provincial Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1003941/ontario-investing-in-programs-to-prevent-and-address-gender-based-violence For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Toronto, ON – The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is an important day that honours the victims of the Montréal École Polytechnique tragedy where 14 young women lost their lives, and 13 others were injured on December 6, 1989. Today is a reminder that violence against women continues to persist in our society. Femicide is still occurring at a rate of 1 woman or girl every 48 hours (Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability, 2022). For Indigenous women, they are six times more likely than a non-Indigenous woman to be murdered in Canada. Numerous municipalities have declared Intimate Partner Violence an epidemic. Indigenous women and their organizations have continued calls for action to address these unacceptable levels of violence and murder. Although statistics cannot convey the true realities of violence experienced by Indigenous women and girls, these numbers highlight how Indigenous women are disproportionately impacted by violence due to the systemic racism and discrimination that they continue to experience. - Between 2009 and 2021, the rate of homicide against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women and girls was six times higher than the rate among their non-Indigenous counterparts (Statistics Canada, October 2023). - In Canada, statistics show that Indigenous women and girls are 12 times more likely to go missing or be murdered than any other women in Canada (Reclaiming Power & Place, 2019) - Homicides of Indigenous women and girls are less likely to result in the most serious murder charges than cases in which victims were non-Indigenous (Statistics Canada, October 2023). - 63% of Indigenous women have faced physical or sexual assault (Statistics Canada, April 2022) - 56% of Indigenous women have experienced physical assault, while 46% of Indigenous women have experienced sexual assault in their lifetime (Statistics Canada, April 2022) - In 2018, the rates of sexual assault against Indigenous women were more than 3 times higher than among non-Indigenous women (Survey of Safety in Public and Private Spaces, Dec 2018) ONWA calls on all governments and communities to take action against violence towards Indigenous women and to create safety for Indigenous women. All communities have a collective responsibility to change these statistics. Indigenous women have the fundamental right to live in safety and to a future free from gender-based violence. “Indigenous women are targeted with violence because of race and gender. This needs to stop. We must begin building new communities where Indigenous women are safe through action at the individual, family, and community level.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO, ONWA ONWA’s Reconciliation with Indigenous Women: Changing the Story of MMIWG (2020) identifies actions in a detailed report outlining key areas of concern and recommendations for moving forward in ending violence against Indigenous women and girls. Today is also known as White Ribbon Day, which is a Canadian movement of men and boys working to end violence against women and girls, promote gender equity, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity. Today, ONWA honours the men and boys who support Indigenous women and girls. ONWA encourages all men and boys to take the pledge: “I pledge never to commit, condone, or remain silent about violence against women.” Furthermore, we call on Indigenous men and boys to join us in standing up against violence. To learn more about how you can help end violence against the women in your life, and for more resources more go to: · https://www.whiteribbon.ca · https://wrappedincourage.ca · https://moosehidecampaign.ca · https://www.learningtoendabuse.ca/online-training · The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence - Women and Gender Equality Canada · Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG) | ONWA If you or a loved one are experiencing violence or domestic abuse, please contact Talk4Healing. They offer 24/7 help, support, and resources for Indigenous women by Indigenous women. Call or text 1-855-554-HEAL (4324) or visit https://talk4healing.com/ For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Thunder Bay ON - The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) proudly announces its 8th Annual Strong Hands Stop Violence Poetry Night. The night is in observance of the United Nations (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and launches the UN 16 days of activism against gender-based violence #orangetheworld campaign. This year’s global campaign theme is: Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls. The campaign ends on December 10th, Human Rights Day, emphasizing that violence against women is the most prevalent breach of human rights worldwide. The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) has been working to end violence against Indigenous women for over 50 years. ONWA believes that Indigenous women have a fundamental right to live in safety and that communities must all work together to create a future free from gender-based violence. The Strong Hands Stop Violence Poetry Night embodies more than an event; it's a gathering of hope and healing. The gathering merges the power of words, art, music, and community to create a space where healing from violence through art becomes palpable.Participants and attendees will experience how poetry, art and music can express the inexpressible, bring to light hidden stories, and foster a sense of shared resilience and empowerment. By featuring a mix of established and emerging artists, this event provides a platform for diverse voices. It underscores ONWA's commitment to nurturing a dialogue around the impact of violence and the journey to healing and resilience, particularly for Indigenous women and communities. This year, ONWA is honored to welcome esteemed guests, including: author, filmmaker, artist, and speaker Cher Obediah; esteemed poet, activist and former chief AL Hunter; activist, writer, poet, teacher, and community leader Jana-Rae Xera; as well as emerging poets from across the province. Adding to the evening's resonance, attendees will enjoy the musical artistry of Sara Kae and the profound talent of seven-time Juno Award winner Susan Aglukark. This inspirational event is scheduled for November 25, 2023, at 7:00 PM EST at the Delta Hotel in Thunder Bay, Ontario, it will also be available online via Zoom. To register for the event visit: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAsf-upqj8rG9NgQoIaKsQyaBVoySaY31Xq If you are unable to attend Poetry Night you can still help us raise awareness by submitting your work to be published in ONWA’s Strong Hands Stop Violence Poetry Book, volume 8. Province wide submissions are considered for ONWA’s annual publication which highlights poetry written by Indigenous women. Poems submitted this year (2023) will be published in a Poetry Book released at next year’s Poetry Night (November 25, 2024). Please be advised that the submission deadline is 11:59 PM EST on December 31, 2023. To submit your poems please use this link: https://forms.office.com/r/zA64Rw4L55 To read previous versions of the Poetry Book: https://www.onwa.ca/strong-hands-stop-violence

In recognition of National Addictions Awareness Week, the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) stands united in fostering a culture of acceptance, safety, unity, and respect within Indigenous communities. By embracing these principles and addressing issues such as responsible gambling and the Good Samaritan Act, we can work together towards a healthier and more resilient community. Let us stand united in support of those on their journey to recovery, fostering a culture of understanding, compassion, and healing. Join us for a profound and enlightening Eagle Feather Teaching with the remarkable Janine Desmoulin, presented by the Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA). In this insightful session, Janine shares her wisdom on the sacred significance of the eagle feather in Indigenous culture. About Janine Desmoulin: Janine is a respected Indigenous Knowledge Keeper. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, she imparts the sacred teachings of the eagle feather, offering a unique perspective that resonates with the rich cultural heritage of our communities. 🔗 For more information on ONWA and our commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous wisdom, visit our website: https://www.onwa.ca/learning-resources Let us honor and celebrate the teachings that connect us all. Miigwetch! Download our Indigenous Responsible Gambling PowerPoint The Good Samaritan-Drug Overdose Act It is our hopes that we can spread awareness of the Good Samaritan Act to our community members to reduce the amount of loss in our community to drug overdose. We encourage everyone to be informed of this Act that will protect you and to help when you see someone who is in need. Everyone has a role in the safety and protection of ourselves and others. Look out for one another and if you see something that is not right, do not be afraid to speak up and get help. We ask for our community members to follow these two important Grandfather teachings of Courage/Bravery, Aakode’ewin and Respect, Minaadendamowin when it comes to overdose awareness and prevention. To do what is right even when we are afraid of the outcomes and consequences and to have respect for all that is. All of creation should be treated with respect and being brave to stay and help another individual is so important.

Toronto, ON – Today the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) would like to honour National Indigenous Veteran’s Day, a day of remembrance and commemoration of the many contributions of Indigenous Veterans. We also celebrate and honour all Indigenous women who served in the military in numerous roles including as leaders, warriors, healers, and protectors. As we reflect, we remember and honour those who lost their lives, and those whose lives were forever changed. This day was first commemorated in Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1994 to ensure that Indigenous Veterans were finally recognized for their contributions to WWI, WWII, and the Korean War. We honour the Indigenous veterans who served Canada honourably and risked their lives defending shared values of peace, harmony, and freedom. Today, we honour Indigenous Veterans through the Indigenous beaded poppy, which is worn with love and respect to honour all Indigenous people who have served this country. It carries cultural significance and is representative of the sacrifices Indigenous Veterans made for their country, sacrifices that continue today for some Indigenous Veterans. Indigenous people were instrumental in the victories of the WWI and WWII, as code breakers and code talkers using their Indigenous languages and as snipers and scouts. Indigenous women also served as nurses, mechanics and factory workers that supplied the military with supplies. Additionally, Indigenous peoples in Canada contributed by allowing their land to be used as airports, rifle ranges, and defence bases. However, despite these services and sacrifices, Indigenous veterans have historically been overlooked and underappreciated by mainstream Canadian society. It is important to acknowledge the disenfranchisement that Indigenous Veterans experienced. As they were exempt from conscription, Indigenous veterans of the First and Second World Wars volunteered to serve, while giving up their Indigenous status. Many Indigenous soldiers were also denied the same benefits as other returning veterans, while their reserve land was sold away. Although they had fought in the war as equals, they did not receive the same supports as non-Indigenous Veterans. So, today we celebrate these “Forgotten Soldiers” along with the Soldiers today, who stand up to protect rights, freedoms, and liberties by sacrificing their own. That’s why it is critical that we recognize and remember Indigenous veterans, including Charlotte Edith Anderson Montoure, who was the first Indigenous woman to become a registered nurse in Canada, and the first Indigenous woman to gain the right to vote in a Canadian federal election. She was also the first Indigenous woman from Canada to serve in the United States military. She had to study in the US because most Canadian nursing programs excluded Indigenous women, and the Indian Act meant she would lose her Indian status if she attended post-secondary school. Ms. Montoure’s story is just one of a plethora of Indigenous veterans, and we acknowledge and thank her and all other Indigenous veterans for their service and sacrifices. As an Indigenous women’s organization, we are dedicated to uplifting and empowering Indigenous women leaders (including Indigenous women like Ms. Montoure) and working to ensure Indigenous women and their families are safe now and for future generations. “We need to be thankful each and everyday to those Indigenous women and men who selflessly gave, and continue to give, their lives in the service of others. We also need to be mindful of tensions in the world at this very moment. My heart is heavy with the hope that the Creator will bless our world with peace and remind all peoples that the 7 Grandfather Teachings are guidance for us all.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette, Chief Executive Officer, ONWA For more information and media inquiries, contact: Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-