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Would you like to access one of our programs or services? 1-800-667-0816 CONTACT ONWA Youth Education Program Overview Youth Education Program assists Indigenous youth (ages 12-24) with support and navigation through their learning and meets them where they are at in their level of learning. Services Offered The Youth Education Support Workers (YESW) will guide youth in creating community connections, teach essential life skills, incorporate traditional knowledge, provide peer based mental health support, and various forms of advocacy. Access to Traditional supports and Ceremony Education resources Life skills programming Health, mental health, and addiction navigation services Advocacy and referrals Access to educational workshops and online classes Peer mentorship DELIVERY SITES Thunder Bay Timmins ONWA SITES (ADDRESSES) OTHER RESOURCES PROGRAM BROCHURE

Would you like to access one of our programs or services? 1-800-667-0816 CONTACT ONWA Indigenous Sexual Assault Overview The Indigenous Sexual Assault program educates service providers, health professionals, community leaders, and community members about sexual assault and violence against Indigenous women and girls. Services Offered Indigenous Sexual Assault program provides culturally relevant and trauma informed services to Indigenous women who have experience sexual assault and/or sexual violence. Intake Advocacy and accompaniment Healing and sharing circles Cultural and traditional teachings Assist with basic needs and transportation Emergency crisis and safety planning Group and individual counselling (traditional and contemporary) Education and awareness workshops Referrals Partnering with community agencies Aftercare follow up and support DELIVERY SITES Sioux Lookout ONWA SITES (ADDRESSES) OTHER RESOURCES PROGRAM BROCHURE

Would you like to access one of our programs or services? 1-800-667-0816 CONTACT ONWA Land-Based Healing Camps Overview Land-Based Healing Camps provide land-based services that meet the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well-being through a culturally trauma-informed approach. Services Offered Land-Based Healing Camps educate and support Indigenous women, their families, and the community in regaining their connection to the land, culture, tradition. Land-based Therapy (seasonal) Access to Elders and Traditional Healers Traditional healing and cultural ceremony Traditional protocol teachings Crafting and making ceremonial items (skirts, shirts, drums, rattles) Sharing and healing circles Medicine walks and teachings (harvesting and usage) Teachings on shared responsibilities and traditional roles Land-based skills teachings (medicines, trapping, fishing, snaring) Traditional food harvesting and preparation (rice, bannock making) DELIVERY SITES Thunder Bay ONWA SITES (ADDRESSES) OTHER RESOURCES PROGRAM BROCHURE In connecting and learning from the land, we learn to care for ourselves. Mother Earth nurtures us, helps us to heal, and empowers us to reclaim our identity as Indigenous people. Land-based Programming In connecting and caring for the lands, we learn to care for ourselves. Mother Earth helps us to heal, she helps us to know who we are. I n knowing who we are in relation to the land, we become the medicine. This video has been deleted. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied

Would you like to access one of our programs or services? 1-800-667-0816 CONTACT ONWA Indigenous Anti-Human Trafficking Overview The Indigenous Anti-Human Trafficking Liaison (IAHTL) Program supports Indigenous communities in providing survivor focused and localized responses to Human Trafficking. The IAHTL initiative was created by and for Indigenous people in order to end Human Trafficking in our communities. The program develops and implements culturally grounded presentations, educational materials, trauma-informed tools and resources, as well as, awareness and prevention tools specific to Indigenous HT for communities that are created with invaluable guidance from survivors. Liaisons organize community engagement and educational sessions with survivors, including youth, Two-Spirit and those who have recently exited, focusing on their strengths and resiliencies in order to inform the development of best practice models. Services Offered Build capacity in service providers through training and education Build capacity in survivors through empowerment, mentorship, supporting survivors in meeting their identified needs such as goal setting, training and education Nurture survivor resilience and strengthening Indigenous women’s leadership Increase awareness in community through resource development & distribution Community engagements and consultation Survivor led strategies and initiatives Advocacy Connect those seeking to exit with culturally appropriate, wraparound, trauma-informed supports and services Systems navigation Provide safer spaces for survivors Workshops, presentations and training across sectors to increase awareness of Indigenous Human Trafficking across the province in order to effect systems change Provincially Available DELIVERY SITES Thunder Bay ONWA SITES (ADDRESSES) CHAPTER SITES Ak wesasne Aboriginal Shelters of Ontario Fort Frances Giishkaandago’Ikwe Health Services Ottawa Métis Nation of Ontario , Minwaashin Lodge Toronto Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto OTHER RESOURCES LEARNING RESOURCES

Building Capacity BUILT ON A STRONG CULTURAL FOUNDATION Land-based Programming In connecting and caring for the lands, we learn to care for ourselves. Mother Earth helps us to heal, she helps us to know who we are. I n knowing who we are in relation to the land, we become the medicine. This video has been deleted. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Community Development builds on a strong cultural foundation and delivers education and awareness programs across the province to empower communities on issues that affect Indigenous women and their families. Programs are delivered in two ways: the first being knowledge and information exchange through a Program Coordinator that utilizes a service delivery model to encompass a combination of workshops, education campaigns, and regional activities. The second is by way of a flow-through funding model that delivers direct community member services through ONWA sites, Chapters and partnering organizations based on community need and organizational expertise. ONWA has developed our service structure to reflect the reality of Indigenous women’s lives and works with community to ensure that their needs are being met through capacity building. Our Community Development Programs OUR PROGRAMS & SERVICES DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Aboriginal Diabetes Education This program aims to educate and support communities about the risk of diabetes and diabetes management. This is done through the delivery of diabetes awareness and prevention presentations and workshops; to deliver presentations about gestational diabetes and proper foot and wound care management, to increase awareness of the need for physical activity; and to ensure information given out is age appropriate and culturally sensitive for Indigenous women and their families. Services Provided: Workshops, Presentations and Training about diabetes that are designed specifically for Indigenous women and their families. Prevention and management of diabetes workshops Gestational Diabetes information sharing sessions and presentations Educational activities about diabetes that are designed specifically for Indigenous women Basic Foot Care Information Sessions Nutritional educational information and sessions on traditional foods as healthy alternatives DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Aboriginal Responsible Gambling Awareness This program provides community awareness, education, prevention, and resource development regarding responsible gambling for the benefit of all Indigenous women and their families. The programming focuses on community development using a traditional Indigenous and land-based approach to provide education, identity, self-location, and healing. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Information and support Training and education Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals DELIVERY SITE: PROVINCIAL CHAPTER SITES: FORT ERIE: NIAGARA CHAPTER OF NATIVE WOMEN | HAMILTON: HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CHAPTER OF NATIVE WOMEN | MIDLAND: GEORGIAN BAY NATIVE WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION | SIOUX LOOKOUT: SUNSET WOMEN'S ABORIGINAL CIRCLE | THUNDER BAY: BEENDIGEN, INC | TORONTO: NATIVE WOMEN'S RESOURCE CENTRE OF TORONTO Breaking Free from Family Violence EDUCATION & AWARENESS This program focuses on meeting the unique needs of Indigenous women, their children and families, who are involved with the child welfare system and violence against women sectors. The program supports women in a culturally rooted, wholistic way, so that women are better able to navigate through the complex systems encountered when experiencing violence and involvement in child welfare matters. This program is delivered via ONWA sites and Chapters to build community capacity. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Crisis management and stabilization of family Liaison with service providers Traditional and cultural supports through activities and workshops Systems navigation and advocacy support Education provision for mothers on their rights and responsibilities that promote and facilitate Family Reunifications DELIVERY SITE: PROVINCIAL CHAPTER SITES: SIOUX LOOKOUT: SUNSET WOMEN'S ABORIGINAL CIRCLE | THUNDER BAY: BEENDIGEN, INC Community Health Outreach EDUCATION & AWARENESS This program is delivered through two ONWA Chapters and builds community capacity in the area of community health and wellness, with the knowledge that if Indigenous women are well, the community is well. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Health Information and support Resource development related to health Advocacy and support to youth Referrals Cultural and traditional activities and workshops DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Ending Violence Against Indigenous Women EDUCATION & AWARENESS This program provides vital education, training and tools to empower and support Indigenous women. This program is geared to support Indigenous women’s healing through wholistic and culturally grounded presentations and workshops. The EV Training Coordinator also develops and delivers resources and training programs tailored to educate EVAIW Workers, and front-line service providers across the province with their responsibilities in advocating for Indigenous Women and their families. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals Cultural and traditional activities and workshops DELIVERY SITE: PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY CHAPTER SITES: AKWESASNE: ABORIGINAL SHELTERS OF ONTARIO | FORT ERIE: NIAGARA CHAPTER OF NATIVE WOMEN | FORT FRANCES: FORT FRANCES TRIBAL AREA HEALTH SERVICES | OTTAWA: METIS NATION OF ONTARIO, MINWAASHIN LODGE | TORONTO: NATIVE WOMEN'S RESOURCE CENTRE OF TORONTO Indigenous Anti-Human Trafficking This program supports Indigenous communities in providing survivor-focused and localized responses to end Human Trafficking. The Liaisons are located at six key partnership sites each supporting one of the five targeted regions: Greater Toronto Area and The Golden Horseshoe area, Ottawa, Akwesasne, Thunder Bay and Treaty #3. The Anti-Human Trafficking Program Lead at ONWA supports the program lead provincially through training, education, mentoring, guidance, and ensuring Indigenous survivor’s voices are central to the work. Services Provided: Build capacity in survivor, community and agency to ensure that Survivor led strategies and initiatives are developed and delivered Nurture survivor resilience and strengthening Indigenous women’s leadership Resource Development Advocacy and Support Systems navigation Workshops, presentations and training across sectors in order to effect systems change DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Indigenous Women’s Leadership This program focuses on building capacity and supporting Indigenous women as leaders in their current roles as leaders of organizations and communities. The program is responsible for maintaining relationships with ONWA’s membership. By supporting Chapters and Councils’ endeavors, the program collaborates with Indigenous women to support their cultural gatherings, educational events, demonstrations, community crises, and community celebrations. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Information and support Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Family Support This program supports families by connecting families to trauma-informed services and provide supports and referrals in their communities. This program is structured to assist families and loved ones with the reconciliation and healing process. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY She is Wise PASSING ON OUR WISDOM This program builds Indigenous women’s leadership and capacity through a focus on Indigenous woman at the centre approach. By increasing her individual skills and abilities, she is able to support her family and community growth. This is completed through a comprehensive training and capacity building approach that is rooted in Indigenous knowledge and ways of knowing and being. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Land-based activities and programming Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals Cultural and traditional activities and workshops CHAPTER SITES: FORT ERIE: NIAGARA CHAPTER OF NATIVE WOMEN | MIDLAND: GEORGIAN BAY NATIVE WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION Services vary at each service delivery site Ska-Be (Helper) EDUCATION & AWARENESS This program provides support services to improve the health and wellbeing of urban Indigenous elderly women and/or those with chronic illness or disabilities. This program is delivered through community partners to increase capacity for an improved quality of life, reflective of their needs and culture. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Individual personal care Resource development Advocacy and services navigation support Referrals Social and cultural activities for individuals and their families to come together DELIVERY SITE THUNDER BAY Urban Aboriginal Strategy ONWA is the sponsoring agency for the Thunder Bay Urban Aboriginal Advisory Committee (UAAC). The UAAC seeks to provide comprehensive and representative advice on urban Indigenous issues in the City of Thunder Bay. The Committee is comprised of members of the urban Indigenous community, urban Indigenous agencies, government, and other community partners in Thunder Bay. Services Provided: Building Indigenous community capacity through community collaboration Partnership development Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals DELIVERY SITES PROVINCIAL | THUNDER BAY Youth Life Promotion MENTORSHIP This program supports Indigenous youth life promotion and suicide prevention activities, including mental health and wellness supports, and clinical and land-based programming. Training provided by the program assists youth with gaining practical tools to enable them to support Indigenous youth to build a strong cultural identity to ensure Indigenous youth feel confident in their individual roles for themselves, and within their families, and communities. Services Provided: Educational Workshops, Presentations and Training Land-based activities and programming Resource development Advocacy and support Referrals Cultural and traditional activities and workshops Send us a message DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS OR NEED HELP WITH SOMETHING? LET US KNOW. CONTACT ONWA

10 DAYS OF TEACHINGS Please ensure your submission does not include copyright protected material. Miigwetch. What is “10 Days of Teaching”? The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) recognises the importance of sharing our Teachings and culture. It is in this spirit, ONWA is asking membership and community members from all Nations to share with us Teachings that are meaningful to you. What is ONWA doing with the submitted Teachings? In an effort to share and preserve our Teachings for future generations, ONWA is working towards featuring collected Teachings across on our website and social media channels. The entries submitted during “10 Days of Teaching” will be part of this initiative. How do I participate? Submit your Teaching as a video or photo with written explanation using the Submission Form. You can enter multiple Teachings, however they must be entered as separate submissions. How many Teachings can I submit? You can submit as many Teachings as you wish to share. Each Teaching requires a separate submission via the Submission Form . For every Teaching submitted, you will receive one entry into the virtual ballot drum for our daily random draws. By entering multiple Teachings you increase your chance to win. How long is “10 Days of Teaching”? 10 days – beginning on Thursday, June 11th and final draw taking place on Saturday, June 20th Do I have to submit every day? No – You can submit as much or as little as you please. Every Teaching submitted receives one entry into the virtual ballot drum for our daily random draws. This ballot will remain active until it is drawn or the promotion ends. Who can participate? Residence of Ontario – women, men, youth and children Why should I participate? Opportunity to share Teachings with our community for generations to come Chance to win cool prizes! How do I win prizes? Submit your Teaching using the Submission Form . Every Teaching submitted receives one entry into the virtual ballot drum for our daily random draws. This ballot will remain active until it is drawn or the promotion ends. There will be two (2) winners drawn every day; one (1) community member entry and one (1) ONWA membership entry. Winners will be notified daily through ONWA’s social media channels, by email or telephone. What are the prizes? Daily prizes alternate between: CDN $100 prepaid visa gift cards Themed gift baskets (approximate value is CDN $100) What are the Rules and Regulations of this promotion? Click here to read the full Rules and Regulations for this promotion. Please be aware that by participating in this promotion you agree to follow the Rules and Regulations outlined for this promotion. Have more questions? Contact the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Building Indigenous Women’s Leadership Program - Toll Free: 1-800-667-0816

Telephone 1-800-667-0816 Hours of Operation Monday - Friday: 9am - 5pm Social Media Send us a message SUBMIT Thanks for submitting! ONWA COMPLIES WITH AODA REQUIRE MENTS | SHARE YOUR AODA FEEDBACK EXTERNAL COMPLAINT FORM Our Locations EMPOWERING INDIGENOUS WOMEN THROUGHOUT ONTARIO

Announcements Find out what programs, events and promotions ONWA is currently running. VIEW PROGRAM CALENDAR Membership Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) membership is based on the establishment of either Chapters or Councils within the province of Ontario. Membership provides Indigenous women the support, capacity development opportunities, and visibility they need to further enhance their lives. ONWA Membership provides Indigenous women within Ontario the opportunity to collectively influence both national and provincial policies and legislation as it relates to issues that affect them. Chapters are incorporated organizations, and Councils are non-incorporated grassroot women’s organizations. Chapters and Councils are registered by regions (North, East, South, and West) based on the Medicine Wheel so that the voices of Indigenous women are heard from all four directions. Key Documents Questions? Chapters Any previous Local or new group of Indigenous women whose organization is registered and in good standing as an Incorporated group through the provincial or federal government will be eligible to become a full service delivery site of the ONWA. Chapters will be required to enter into a MOU with the ONWA in order to strengthen clarity and accountability in the relationships. Become A Member (Chapter) Councils A grassroots group of women, who chose not to become an incorporated body, but maintain a presence to provide supports, educate and advocate for Indigenous women and/or children in their community. These groups can also be in the process of becoming an ONWA Chapter. Become A Member (Council) Membership Services Indigenous Women’s Leadership Builds capacity and supports Indigenous women as leaders in their current roles as leaders of organizations and communities. Maintaining relationships with ONWA’s membership. Provincially Available | Thunder Bay LEARN MORE ONWA in Ontario As of August 2025, ONWA’s membership consists of 17 Chapters (incorporated organizations providing frontline services) and 22 Councils (grassroots groups supporting community development models), representative of ONWA’s four regional directions – North, South, East, West – throughout the province. (This number is likely to increase as ONWA continues to work with communities and expand the membership.) Reflected in the map, ONWA is currently delivering services and programs in 27 sites across Ontario. 10 of these sites are direct service delivery sites, whereas the remaining 17 are through our Chapter membership organizations. ONWA recognizes that Indigenous women’s agencies are stronger together as a collective and we will continue to build relationship and capacity with Indigenous women and their agencies as a result our membership numbers may change from year to year. Eastern Region Chapters Biimaawzogin Regional Aboriginal Women’s Circle (BRAWC) Daughters of the Fur Trade Georgian Bay Native Women’s Association Lovesick Lake Native Women’s Association Minwaashin Lodge Nakehndan: Knowing Your Truth Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Orillia Native Women’s Group Tyendinaga Native Women’s Association Councils All Our Relations Bawaating Anishnabekwewok Indigenous Women On-Line Kingston Thunder Women The Matriarch's Rainbow Women Waibejawong Anishnabequek Southern Region Chapters Hamilton Wentworth Chapter of Native Women Inc. Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto Niagara Chapter-Native Women Inc. Councils Deshkan Zii Bi Indigenous Women’s Association Indigenous Women of Niagara Kiinwi Gdaniwewin’aa Métis Women’s Circle Western Region Chapters Beendigen Inc. Biidaajiwun Inc. Kenora Anishinaabe-Kweg Aboriginal Women’s Organization Sunset Women’s Aboriginal Circle Councils Grassy Narrows Women’s Group Mindemoyag Women’s Group Thunder Bay Council Wabigoon Aboriginal Women’s Group Northern Region Chapters Anishnaabe Kateri Association Councils Aroland Ladies of 242 Constance Lake Anishinawbe Quek Ginoogaming First Nation Council Mamowedew New Post Women’s Group Rocky Bay Women’s Council Board of Directors ONWA’s leadership is based on a policy governing board of Directors comprising of twelve Indigenous women, including four youth Director positions to ensure the mentorship and voices of our future generation is reflective in our work. All the Directors are elected from ONWA’s membership. A regional Grandmothers’ Council, who are non-voting members of the board, provide advisory and mentorship support to the Board of Directors. EAST Melinda Commanda President Stephanie (Mikki) Adams Secretary Hunter Corbiere Youth Director Suzanne Knapp Grandmother SOUTH Vacant Director Brandy Pasalic Director Sophia Carnovale Vice President/ Youth Director Renee Thomas-Hill Grandmother WEST Tana Troniak Treasurer Debra Vermette Director Madison Wigwas Youth Director Vacant Grandmother NORTH Lisa Echum Director Roberta Wesley Director Alysha Wesley Youth Director Gwen Provost Grandmother Board of Directors Melinda Commanda PRESIDENT Melinda Commanda is a proud Anishnawbe Kwe and a member of the Serpent River First Nation. She has been affiliated with ONWA for over 20 years as an employee, ONWA Council member, and a member of the Board of Directors. Melinda was raised in the city of Toronto but has also lived in many parts of Ontario such as Red Lake, Thunder Bay, and Serpent River First Nation. She now resides in Sudbury. Her experience in living in various locations across Ontario provides her with an understanding of the issues Indigenous women across the province face. Melinda has devoted her entire career to working with and for Indigenous organizations. She consistently demonstrates her integrity, willingness to share her knowledge, and strong communication skills through her work. Melinda began her career in social work but made the decision to obtain a post-secondary education, to better her and her children’s lives. While completing her Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) degree she also took many native studies courses and statistical courses that focused on quantitative and qualitative research. To complement her formal education, she has also taken various workshops and skills training. Melinda has volunteered her time to a variety of non-profit organizations either as a board member, chairperson, or as an advocate. Her extensive career and education have given her the ability to work in a variety of areas. In her spare time, she likes to quilt, craft, and spend time with family. She has three grown children and many grandchildren. Cora McGuire-Cyrette Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cora McGuire-Cyrette has been serving as the Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA), the largest and oldest Indigenous women’s organization in Canada, since 2015. Ending violence against Indigenous women and their families and ensuring equal access to justice, education, health services, environmental stewardship, and economic development, sit at the cornerstone of the organization. A proud member of the Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (Sand Point First Nation), she uses her voice to champion the rights of Indigenous women and girls, cultivate healing, create safe spaces, and supporting Indigenous women and youth as they reclaim their role as leaders. As a role model in Indigenous women’s leadership, Cora was integral to the development of the Ontario Anti-Human Trafficking Strategy, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Cora serves as Co-Chair of the Indigenous Women’s Advisory Council of Ontario, and the Chair of the Ontario Aboriginal Housing Services, among others. Cora holds a BA in Indigenous Learning and Sociology from Lakehead University and an MMBA from York University, Schulich School of Business. She lives in Thunder Bay with her husband and has three children and two grandsons. BIOGRAPHY Leadership Top Board of Directors Leadership Announcements Programs & Events Membership Chapters & Councils Membership Services ONWA in Ontario Membership Map Membership Listing

Honouring Mother Earth SMALL ACTIONS, BIG IMPACT [Back to Promotions page] General Rules and Regulations - "Honouring Mother Earth" These are the official contest rules and regulations for the Ontario Native Women’s Association’s (ONWA) "Honouring Mother Earth" Contest . Entry in “the contest” constitutes acceptance of these rules and regulations (the “contest rules and regulations”), and entrants are bound by these contest rules and regulations. Contest Name: Honouring Mother Earth Contest Period: Beginning 7:00 AM EST Friday April 7th, 2023, and ending 11:59 PM EST Saturday April 22nd, 2023. Contest Draw Dates: Monday, April 24th, 2023 Overview: Saturday, April 22nd is Earth Day; a day that celebrates and promotes environmental awareness and action. ONWA has long been invested in the protection of Mother Earth, as ONWA knows that the wellness of the land is linked to the wellness of Indigenous women and their families. Everyone can individually take responsibility for community impact on Mother Earth. ONWA is asking community "What actions are you taking to protect Mother Earth?". Community is asked to submit a photo/video/story about what steps they are taking to protect Mother Earth for a chance to win an prizes. Definitions For the purpose of these official contest rules and regulations the following terms/definitions apply: ONWA: Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Contest Qualifying Period: The 24-hour period from 12:01AM ET on one day to 11:59 PM the following day during the contest period. Contest Prizing: A draw(s) for the number of prizes during the contest period. Qualified Entrant: A resident of the province of Ontario 18 years of age or older, or who is under the age of 18 years of age, with authorization of their guardian. Individuals who are ineligible include employees of the (ONWA), all sponsors related to “the contest”, their dealers, subsidiaries, agents and affiliates and their respective advertising agencies, members of such employees’ immediate families, same household members. For the purposes of all contests, immediate family is defined as mother, father, in-laws, grandmother, grandfather, brother or spouse, sister or spouse, children, and grandchildren. Qualified Entry: Entry ballots are generated when a Qualified Entrant enters the contest in accordance with these Contest rules and regulations. Contest Prizes Protecting Mother Earth Kit (includes "Mother Nature" by Kevin Belmore Paint Kit, maple syrup, wild rice, and a "Breath of Life" Cosmetic Bag set) There will be ten (10) grand prize winners. Grand prize winners will be divided between two kinds of participants: Community Members (5) Membership, ONWA Chapters and Councils (5) Completes Submission Forms will count as an entry into the virtual ballot drum for the random winner's draw. In the case of multiple entries, there will only be one entry counted per person. Winners of the draw will be notified through ONWA’s social media channels, and by email or teleph one. How to Enter There is one (1) way to enter the "Honouring Mother Earth" Contest Beginning 7:00 AM EST Friday April 7th, 2023, and ending 11:59 PM EST Saturday April 22nd, 2023. Qualified entrants can visit www.onwa.ca directly or via a link provided in the advertising, and complete an online ballot which includes submission of a photo and/or video with accompanying description and collection of the following information: First and last name Email details Mailing address details Agree that the ONWA has the right to use, publish submitted photo on social media platforms. Qualified entrant's who participate in "the consent", by selecting/clicking the consent button agree to allow ONWA to use submitted stories/descriptions, photos, videos, names for the purpose storytelling, sharing and honouring, via social media platforms and website (onwa.ca). General Contest Rules and Regulations By participation in “the contest”, entrants agree to release/indemnify/hold harmless Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn. By participating in the "consent" you agree to allow ONWA to use stories/descriptions/photos/video submissions on social media channels for the purpose of storytelling, sharing and honouring Indigenous women and families. ONWA acknowledges that “the contest” is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn. No purchase is necessary to participate in “the contest”. All winners must answer a skill testing question before any prize is awarded. There is no maximum of the number of entries per person per promotional period. Personal information collected from contest entrants will be used solely by ONWA for the purpose of administering “the contest”. By participating in “the contest”, each entrant consents to collection, use and disclosure of personal information for these purposes. Prizes must be accepted as awarded, and are non-transferable, nor do awarded prizes have cash value. Prizing will be mailed to contest winners according to mailing instructions completed in the online ballot (see R&R 2). To claim a prize, you a resident of the province of Ontario 18 years of age or older, or who is under the age of 18 years of age, with authorization of their guardian. ONWA is not responsible for complications that take place with email servers, telephone lines and/or computer delivery. ONWA is not responsible for misdirected entries. In the case of an email entry, if the identity of an entrant is in disputed, the authorized account holder of the e-mail address submitted at the time of entry will be deemed to be the entrant. The individual assigned to the e-mail address for the domain associated with the submitted e-mail address is considered the authorized account holder of the e-mail address associated with the selected entry. All entries must be submitted from a valid e-mail account that may be identified by reverse domain name search. The sole determinant of time for the purposes of receipt of a valid entry in this contest server machine(s). Any attempt to deliberately damage any website or to undermine the legitimate operation of this promotion is a violation of criminal and civil laws, and should such an attempt be made, ONWA reserves the right to seek remedies and damages to the fullest extent permitted by law, including criminal prosecution. ONWA reserves the right to deny a contest entrant a contest prize in the event a contest entrant fails to meet any of the above conditions. ONWA reserves the right to amend these official contest rules and regulations at any time. Should amendments occur, ONWA will take action to communicate new rules within 48 hours of amendments to the official contest rules and regulations. All entries acquired through entry into “the contest” become property of ONWA and shall in no case be returned to the contest entrant. Subject to applicable federal, provincial, and municipal laws, these rules govern all aspects of this official contest rules and regulations and are binding. If “the contest” is cancelled for any reason, “the contest” will end with no compensation offered to existing qualified entrants or contest prize winners. ONWA is not liable for delays or cancellation of “the contest”. ONWA reserves the right to cancel “the contest” or disqualify a participant due to fraud, technical failures, or human errors, the contest cannot be held as originally planned by the station and associated sponsors. Any person entering the contest in such a way that it will corrupt the fair and honest conduct of the contest or could interfere with any other contestant’s chances of participating or winning, will be disqualified. All prizes will be mailed within 30 days of winning.

Honouring Water 2023 WINNERS Submit Please ensure your submission does not include copyright protected material. Miigwetch. About We want to hear about what water means to you! March 22 is World Water Day and ONWA is honouring water teachings and stories. Share a teaching about water or tell us how water is impacting your life, and your community. Why do you honour water? Is, or has, your community been under a boil water advisory? What is the significance of water in your life? Submit a photo/video/write up explaining what water means to you to be entered into a draw to win a water bundle prize! THE TEACHING OF THE HUMMINGBIRD: One day there was a large forest fire that broke out. All the wild animals ran for their lives. They stood at the edge of the blaze, watching the flames in terror and sadness. Above their heads, a hummingbird flew steadily back and forth to the fire. The bigger animals asked the tiny little bird what she was doing. She replied, “I am flying to the lake to get water to help put out the fire.” All the animals began to laugh at her and said, “You can’t put out this fire by yourself!” The tiny hummingbird responded, “I’m doing what I can.” How do I win prizes? Complete the Submission Form to receive an entry into the virtual ballot drum for our random draw. There will be ten (10) grand prize winners. Grand prize winners will be divided between two kinds of participants: Community Members (5) Membership, ONWA Chapters and Councils (5) Winners will be notified through ONWA’s social media channels, by email or telephone. Grand Prizes include: A hummingbird water bottle Reusable bag with hummingbird on it Hummingbird art piece designed by Deanna Therriault Including the card that you are designing explaining the hummingbird story First 40 submissions receive re-usable bag with hummingbird art print (1 prize per person)! Prizes Submissions close at 11:59 PM EST on Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023 . Draw will take place and winner's will be announced on Friday, March 24th, 2023 Deadline How do I participate? Submit your entry as a video, photo with written explanation, or a written entry using the Submission Form . How many entries can I submit? You can submit as many entries as you wish to share. Each entry requires a separate submission via the Submission Form . For every entry submitted, you will receive one entry into the virtual ballot drum for the Grand Prize Draw. By entering multiple entries you increase your chance to win. You can win one (1) prize per person. How long is this promotion? 8 days – beginning on Wednesday March 15th and closing at 11:59 PM EST on Wednesday March 22nd, 2023. The final prize draw taking place on Friday March 24th, 2023. Who can participate? Residence of Ontario. If you are under the age 18, please ensure that you have parental consent to participate. What are the Rules and Regulations of this promotion? Click here to read the full Rules and Regulations for this promotion. Please be aware that by participating in this promotion you agree to follow the Rules and Regulations outlined for this promotion. Rules & Regulations 2023 Winners 2022 Winne rs

Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG) WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ONWA recognizes and honours families of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls NATIONAL ACTION PLAN Ontario’s Strategy: PATHWAYS TO SAFETY REPORT (2021) PLACEMAT OVERVIEW PATHWAYS ONWA's Report: RECONCILIATION WITH INDIGENOUS WOMEN REPORT (2020) 13 RECOMMENDATIONS INDIGENOUS GENDER-BASED ANALYSIS Community Resources: VIDEOS GRANDMOTHER EARTH DRESS National Action Plan MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN, GIRLS, AND 2SLGBTQQIA+ PEOPLE NATIONAL ACTION PLAN LEARN MORE ABOUT THE NATIONAL ACTION PLAN National Action Plan Ontario's Strategy Pathways to Safety Report Pathways to Safety ONTARIO’S STRATEGY IN RESPONSE TO THE FINAL REPORT INTO MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN AND GIRLS (2021) “As the bearers of the future generations of our peoples, Indigenous women, mothers, are physically and symbolically the source of resistance against those who would see us disappear.” – Dr. Dawn Lavell-Harvard, ONWA. With the truth uncovered and the government respecting the recommendations of Indigenous women, the plan is a solid foundation for lasting change. The Ontario government’s plan outlines six key areas where action is needed. READ THE REPORT (ENGLISH) READ THE REPORT (FRENCH) Placemat OVERVIEW OF ONTARIO’S PATHWAYS TO SAFETY REPORT The Indigenous Women’s Advisory Council has developed a placemat that is a companion to Ontario’s Response. The placemat illustrates the structure and recommendations of Ontario's MMIWG response, while also incorporating cultural elements. DOWNLOAD the placemat in: ENGLISH INUKTITUT MICHIF MOHAWK MOOSE CREE OJIBWAY OJI-CREE SWAMPY CREE Placemat Pathways BASED ON ONTARIO’S PATHWAYS TO SAFETY REPORT Pathway to Safety and Security We begin in the East by creating safe spaces for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ persons by identifying systemic change. Ontario will support Indigenous women to lead what is needed to increase safety and healing. Key Initiatives, such as addressing social and economic marginalization, will act as protective factors against the violence faced by Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ persons. Pathway to Health and Well Being We move to the South and we restore Indigenous wellness practices and ways of being by applying an Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis that leads to action and change. Ontario’s actions and initiatives seek to promote community-led renewal and restoration of health by including Indigenous women and 2SLGBTQQIA+-centered approaches to the health system delivery. This includes programs and services to improve access, promote safety, and increase culturally relevant and appropriate treatment and mental health services across Ontario. Pathway to Justice In the West, we work together to reclaim our rights and affect systems change to ensure justice for all. Ontario will focus on systems-wide transformation informed by Indigenous perspectives and structural change in priority areas including justice, policing and child welfare. Pathway to Culture From the North, we take action to continue the work of reclamation, to ensure our identity is recognized. Respecting cultural rights means renewing honour for Indigenous women - it means celebrating and embracing women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ persons as sacred and valuable. Initiatives that seek to promote healing by supporting the restoration, reclamation and revitalization of Indigenous languages, cultures and identities are key. Pathways ONWA's Report "Indigenous women must not go missing from the National Action Plan." (Cora McGuire-Cyrette, Executive Director, ONWA) Reconciliation with Indigenous Women Report Reconciliation with Indigenous Women CHANGING THE STORY OF MISSING AND MURDERED INDIGENOUS WOMEN AND GIRLS (2020) ONWA's Recommendations for the National Action Plan to Address Violence Against Indigenous Women and Girls. This report embodies critical recommendations that must be integrated into the national Action Plan to address violence against Indigenous women and girls. Indigenous women are at the center of our families and communities. We need to be at the center of the National Action Plan. DOWNLOAD ONWA'S REPORT 13 Recommendations 13 Recommendations FROM THE RECONCILIATION WITH INDIGENOUS WOMEN (2020) REPORT For decades now, ONWA has worked to end violence against Indigenous women. Our recommendations are well-informed, prioritize the health, safety, and well-being of Indigenous women and their families, and seek to ensure that no additional harms will come to Indigenous women. Theses recommendations were developed by combining research, community submissions, and ONWA’s expertise: (Click the recommendations title to view the full details.) 1. The Safety of Indigenous Women Must be at the Centre of the National Action Plan 2. Centre the National Action Plan on Indigenous Women - Restore Indigenous Women’s Roles and Responsibilities through the National Action Plan 3. Invest in Indigenous Women and Our Organizations 4. Reclaim and Restore the Role of Indigenous Women as Mothers 5. Invest in Healing 6. Restoration of Indigenous Women’s Inherent Rights 7. Restoring Balance within Communities 8. Addressing the Many Forms of Violence that Indigenous Women and Girls Face 9. Moving Beyond the Legal System to Justice 10. Policy and Research Capacity – Revealing the Story and Understanding its Meaning 11. Education – Learn the Truth 12. Culturally-Appropriate Services and Systems that Indigenous Women Navigate 13. Accountability IGBA Model Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis VISUAL REPRESENTATION ONWA’s Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis (IGBA) provides a deeper understanding of issues facing Indigenous women and the multiple systems we navigate. ONWA identified 28 systems from listening to Indigenous women as the experts in their lives. All of the systems have embedded systemic racism and perpetuate violence against Indigenous women. ONWA’s IGBA is built from an analysis of existing anti-violence work ONWA undertook over 50 years. It is designed to identify and eliminate factors that create any form of violence against Indigenous women. This graphic is a representation of the 28 systems and our roles and responsibilities based on teachings from the turtle. It starts with an understanding that we are ALWAYS moving in a direction – forward, backwards or sideways. When we are in balance as Indigenous women, we can be guided by Creator and culture. The turtle’s head represents Creator’s purpose for us. Every Indigenous woman has a purpose and gifts to fulfill that purpose. The turtle’s tail represents community needs. Each Indigenous woman is intended to use her gifts to contribute to her community’s restoration and maintenance of balance. The turtle’s feet represent the four roles Indigenous women need to maintain: Self – Our role as strong and healthy Indigenous women in the world. Family – Our role to restore and maintain a strong and healthy Indigenous family. Community – Our gifts and skills to rebuild and restore Indigenous communities. Our organizations can sometimes be our community. Nation – Our gifts and skills to rebuild and restore Nations (Indigenous, First Nation, Provincial, National) The turtle’s shell represents the 13 Grandmother Moons, each moon corresponding with a key recommendation. Community Resources Videos Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG) Indigenous women’s solutions key to Reconciliation with Indigenous Women (2020) Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Now Playing Indigenous women’s solutions key to Reconciliation with Indigenous Women (2020) 01:27 Play Video Now Playing Grandmother Earth Dress 01:46 Play Video Now Playing Theland Kicknosoway Honour Song 01:11 Play Video Now Playing ONWA Annual Sisters in Spirit Vigil 01:01 Play Video Grandmother Earth Dress Grandmother Earth Dress HEALING & HONOURING INDIGENOUS WOMEN & GIRLS IN THE SPIRIT WORLD The Grandmother Earth Dress is a traditional red jingle dress, created by the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA), and inspired by Jaime Black’s REDress Project. She honours and acknowledges Missing and Murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. She also serves as a sacred item of healing for families as well as communities to commemorate their loved ones. She is meant for families to visualize their loved one in beautiful traditional regalia. Métis artist Jaime Black started the REDress Project ( www.theredressproject.org ) to call attention to the gendered and racialized nature of violent crimes committed against Indigenous women and to evoke a presence through the marking of absence. Inspired by her work and our own work with Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people, ONWA created Grandmother Earth Dress. 365 jingles on the dress represent a year round call for justice and safety for Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. While the colour red is not normally part of the Journey Ceremony, this specific dress was born out of vision and ceremony through the guidance and consultation of Elders, Healers, and Knowledge Keepers, where she received her name Grandmother Earth Dress. Through ceremony and teachings, guidance and explanation told that Grandmother Earth Dress came from the Southern Direction to honour women, girls, and Two-Spirit people as missing loved ones and as mothers, daughters, aunties, sisters, grandmothers, nieces and cousins. They will know the dress is made for them. They will know that they are loved. Grandmother Earth Dress travels throughout Ontario to support families and communities. She is never meant to be worn in this realm but is symbolic of those in the spirit world. ONWA cares and provides ceremony for her four times per year, when she travels, and to prepare her for the community she will be visiting. ONWA would like to offer special acknowledgement to staff members Collin Graham and Lindsay Tyance, for their dream and hard work to bring forward Grandmother Earth Dress; and to recognize Rita Tyance for beadwork; and Jordis Duke for her creative ability to capture the essence of the Grandmother Earth Dress in ‘She Dances …and they dance with her’ artwork (right). Ontario Native Women's Association Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Commemorative Art Project Top Placemat IGBA Model Grandmother Earth Dress Pathways to Safety Report Reconciliation with Indigenous Women Report 13 Recommendations Pathways National Action Plan Videos Commemorative Art Project

At the ONWA, we celebrate and honour the safety and healing of Indigenous women and girls as they take up their leadership roles in the family, community and internationally for generations to come. Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) Vision Our Vision About Us About Us The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is a not for profit organization to empower and support all Indigenous women and their families in the province of Ontario through research, advocacy, policy development and programs that focus on local, regional and provincial activities. Established in 1971, ONWA delivers culturally enriched programs and services to Indigenous women and their families regardless of their status or locality. We are committed to providing services that strengthen communities and guarantee the preservation of Indigenous culture, identity, art, language and heritage. Ending violence against Indigenous women and their families and ensuring equal access to justice, education, health services, environmental stewardship and economic development, sit at the cornerstone of the organization. ONWA insists on social and cultural well–being for all Indigenous women and their families, so that all women, regardless of tribal heritage may live their best life. ONWA welcomes and has always been inclusive of all self-identifying Indigenous women and girls, including Two-Spirit people. This includes welcoming the many social identities that we each hold. READ ONWA'S STRATEGIC PICTURE TO LEARN MORE Values ONWA is committed to using a human rights framework for our work. As our foundation, we use the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) . This framework supports Indigenous women’s individual and collective rights to have their own agencies, to be directly and meaningfully engaged on issues that directly impact them and the reclaiming of their leadership. RECLAIM Indigenous women’s role as matriarchs (leadership) in their families and communities. RESTORE Indigenous women’s identity and inherent rights beyond a jurisdictional approach. RECONCILE relationships to ensure that Indigenous women have a right to safety regardless of location. RECOGNIZE that Indigenous women are the medicine needed to heal ourselves, families, and communities. Our Values Strategic Issues Model Strategic Issues Model Organizational Structure Organizational Structure At ONWA, we do not see one person as more important than the other, but rather, we focus on each of our responsibilities as part of the whole. We come together in unity and work towards one vision. ONWA’s Operating Model (below) places Indigenous women at the centre surrounded by our vision, principles, and mandate. Our operating model is reflective not only of our organizational structure but also reflective of the intersectionality of our work as an agency and focuses on everyone’s responsibilities as leaders within the agency. READ ONWA'S STRATEGIC PICTURE Top About Us Our Values Strategic Issues Model Organizational Structure Our Vision