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Thunder Bay, ON  – The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) extends our sincere congratulations to the newly appointed federal cabinet.  We are especially pleased to see the reinstatement of the Minister of Women and Gender Equality (WAGE) position and look forward to working collaboratively with Minister Valdez in her new role.   We are also encouraged by the appointment of two Indigenous women to cabinet positions. We congratulate Mandy Gull-Masty on her appointment as the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) - for the first time, this important role is held by an Indigenous person.  We also congratulate Rebecca Chartrand on her appointment as the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency. The leadership of these women marks an important step toward inclusive and representative governance. ONWA looks forward to continuing our work with the new federal government to ensure Indigenous women’s voices are heard and honoured, and our rights upheld .   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  – This Mother’s Day, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) honours the sacred roles of Indigenous mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and caregivers. Across generations, their love has nurtured families, carried cultural knowledge, and sustained the deep-rooted strength of community. Motherhood is a sacred gift. Mothers are some of our first teachers; through them teachings are passed down, stories are remembered, and the heartbeat of our Nations continues. Whether through birth, caregiving, or chosen family, Indigenous women carry the strength of generations and embody resilience, compassion, and unconditional love. At ONWA, we hold space for all those who mother — those walking with us today, those we remember with love, and those whose guidance lives on in our hearts. Mother’s Day is a time to pause and reflect on the warmth of shared memories, the laughter held in kitchens and living rooms, and the quiet strength that holds families together. Today is a time to honour the unspoken sacrifices, the healing presence, and the cultural wisdom of Indigenous mothers.   For more information and media inquiries, contact:  Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-

Collaborative data project seeks to enhance understanding of MMIWG2S+ crisis, strengthen advocacy and highlight lack of action from Canada since the National Inquiry May 5, 2025 (Unceded Anishinabe Territory | Ottawa) — Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada, Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LFMO), the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) and 2 Spirits in Motion Society (2SiMS) announced a collaborative, Indigenous-led data project focused on Missing and Murdered First Nations, Métis and Inuit Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender-diverse Peoples today. “Despite the clear path laid out by the National Inquiry, First Nations, Métis and Inuit Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender-diverse Peoples are still dehumanized, devalued and targeted,” says Pauktuutit President and CEO Nikki Komaksiutiksak. “This project will strengthen ongoing advocacy eff orts and pressure the Government of Canada to implement all 231 Calls for Justice identifi ed by the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.” This project is intended to bring in additional Indigenous-led organizations that can assist in data collection on Missing and Murdered First Nations, Métis and Inuit Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender-diverse Peoples, which will be used to raise awareness and lead to the creation of a national database — strengthening advocacy, driving social progress and changing policy. “Police forces, child welfare systems and social services lack an understanding of their role in systemic violence, resulting in unreliable and inaccurate MMIWG2S+ data,” says LFMO Director of MMIWG2S Initiatives Kristen Gilchrist-Salles. “We must put an end to the violent systems shaping this crisis — the data we collect will help us accomplish this.” “The data will help support advocacy eff orts on the ground and at the highest levels of government,” says 2SiMS National Research Coordinator Imriel Bissnette. “Today, on Red Dress Day, we ask everyone across the country to come together, hold governments accountable and put an end to the genocide of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender-diverse Peoples.” "This partnership and project is about a shared commitment to truth, accountability and walking alongside each other with respect and responsibility,” says ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette. “It's about coming together with care and purpose to honour the lives and experiences of First Nations, Métis and Inuit Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender-diverse Peoples. By using data to shine a light on systemic gaps and injustices, this work aims to support long-overdue accountability and strengthen safety, justice and healing in our communities." The organizations are working alongside CDCI and Wampum Records — who helped build the online data repository for the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation together. For more information, visit: https://pauktuutit.ca/mmiwig2s/database -30- Media Contact: Jill McKenzie Director of Strategy and Media Relations pipikwan pêhtâkwan jill@pipikwanpehtakwan.com About Pauktuutit Inuit Women of Canada : Pauktuutit is the national non-profit organization representing all Inuit women in Canada. Its mandate is to foster a greater awareness of the needs of Inuit women, and to encourage their participation in community, regional and national concerns in relation to social, cultural and economic development. About Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak : Les Femmes Michif Otipemisiwak (LMFO) is the recognized National voice of Métis women from across the Métis Motherland informed by the expressed priorities of grassroots Métis women. About Ontario Native Women’s Association : 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. About 2 Spirits in Motion Society : The 2 Spirits in Motion Society (2SiMS) is a registered national non-profit society that seeks to create, maintain, and strengthen a safe and supportive environment for 2 Spirit people to express themselves through cultural ways of knowing and being around gender and sexuality; and to succeed and be empowered in all areas that are grounded in the medicines that 2 Spirit people carry.

Thunder Bay, ON –  This May, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is proud to honour and promote mental health awareness. The Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) theme this year, “Unmasking Mental Health”, reflects the importance of reconnecting with our inner selves. Indigenous women often wear invisible masks as a form of protection, shaped by lived experiences, trauma, and societal expectations. This week, we invite all Indigenous women to gently begin unmasking, to reclaim their inner sacredness, and to embrace their mental wellness journey with compassion, care, and cultural pride. Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being. It includes emotional, psychological, and social wellness. ONWA acknowledges the impacts of colonialism, intergenerational trauma, and systemic barriers on Indigenous women's mental health. We continue to advocate for holistic, culturally grounded supports that uplift Indigenous women, families, and communities. As part of ONWA’s initiatives this year, we are honoured to host the Indigenous Women’s Health Talk, a virtual webinar providing space for culturally relevant conversations on wellness, healing, and resilience. The Talk will take place on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, and will be available virtually as a live stream through ONWA’s social media accounts (Facebook, YouTube and Twitch): https://www.onwa.ca/social . The Talk will explore the concept of masking —what it means, how it shows up, and how we can begin honouring our true selves through self-reflection activities. This week, ONWA will also be sharing tools and teachings that encourage Indigenous women to reflect, recenter, and reclaim their wellness journeys. We encourage women to pass these teachings along to their families and communities, and to take time to honour themselves through culture, creativity, and connection. ONWA remains committed to the holistic wellness of Indigenous women through traditional practices that support emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. Together, we can honour and reclaim the sacredness that lies within us all. 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 –  May 5th is the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit peoples (MMIWG2S), also known as "Red Dress Day". It is a time to honour the strength and resilience of Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit peoples, who face disproportionate violence. We must stand beside them to advocate for safety, healing, and justice. By participating in events, wearing red, and sharing information we can amplify the voices of Indigenous communities and support efforts to bring about meaningful change. ONWA, ONWA members, and partner agencies are hosting Red Dress Day events across Ontario. To learn more about Red Dress Day events happening in your community, please visit: https://www.onwa.ca/post/may-5-is-red-dress-day . ONWA encourages you to learn more about the ongoing crisis of MMIWG2S, recommendations from Indigenous women, and the actions needed by: Visiting the ONWA MMIWG2S webpage which hosts resources, videos, and reports https://www.onwa.ca/learning-resources-mmiwg Reading the ONWA Report “Reconciliation with Indigenous Women- Changing the Story of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls” https://www.onwa.ca/reports Reading the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People National Action Plan https://mmiwg2splus-nationalactionplan.ca/eng/1670511213459/1670511226843   For more information and media inquiries, contact:  Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca

May 5 is the National Day of Awareness for Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people (MMIWG2S), also known as "Red Dress Day." In recognition of this day, ONWA and ONWA Membership are holding events across Ontario. Event information below! Aroland, ON Where : OW Training Centre, Aroland When : 2:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Where your ribbon skirts. We will walk around the community. Light refreshments provided. Barrie, ON Where : Meridian Place, 30 Simcoe Street, Barrie When : 6:00 AM (Sunrise Ceremony), Monday, May 5 Come join Barrie Native Friendship Centre and partner organizations down at the Meridian Place to raise awareness of Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls and speak on the Moose Hide Campaign. Grassy Narrows, ON Where : Complex, Grassy Narrows When : 5:00 - 9:00 PM (Sunrise Ceremony), Monday, May 5 Sewing red skirts or anything else you want to sew. Food and drinks. Everyone welcome. Hamilton, ON Where : 21 Rosedene Ave, Hamilton When : 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Please join us to honour MMIWG2S through ceremony. Light refreshments and snacks provided. Kenora, ON Where : 1301 Railway St (1301 Railway St, Kenora When : 5:00 - 7:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Please join us for our Round Dance Memorial & Awareness Event in honour of Red Dress Day with KSAC, Treaty 3 police, Ne-Chee Friendship Center, Metis Nation of Ontario, KCA and NWOMCFS. Soup and Bannock will be provided. Come show off your moves for a chance to win some prizes! Vendors and social services will be on site to provide information and merchandise. All welcome, no registration required! Midland, ON Where : Little Lake Park, Midland When : 12:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Stories of survival, identity, and hope. With guest speakers Joyce-Lyne Carver, Ashley King, and Rheann Ackabee. Niagara, ON Where : 1088 Garrison Rd, Fort Erie When : 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Thursday, May 8 Day will include: Smudging Station Red Dress Display MMIW Awareness Dolls Indigenous Songs by Nicole Joy-Fraser Safety Segment by Elaine Berwald Lunch will be provided at this event. Please register at kitsune@ncnw.ca OR by phone 905-871-8770 Orillia, ON Where : John Snake Memorial Grounds, Orillia When : 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Ottawa, ON Where : Jean Pigott Place, City Hall (110 Laurier Ave West), Ottawa When : 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday, May 5 On May 5, 2025, the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition (OAC) invites all community members to come together and recognize Red Dress Day. This event honours the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) and brings the community together in remembrance and advocacy. The gathering will feature educational displays, art installations, commemorative activities, and creative projects to foster healing and unity. Thunder Bay, ON Where : Spirit Garden, Marina Park, Thunder Bay When : 12:00 PM, Monday, May 5 Join us on the walk (Marina Park to Port Arthur Legion Branch 5 (229 Van Norman St.)) and wear red to recognize Red Dress Day For more information, email: cassandra.blair@beendigen.com or champagne.thomson@shelterhouse.on.ca Click to let us know the names of loved ones to read aloud at the vigil .

🌟 Save the Date for ONWA’s 54th Annual General Assembly & Leadership Conference! 🌟 📅 September 12–14, 2025 📍 Ottawa, ON This is a membership-only event . Stay tuned for more details!

Thunder Bay, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberal Party on their re-election. We look forward to working together in the spirit of reconciliation to support Indigenous women’s leadership, and to uphold our rights.  As Prime Minister Carney considers Cabinet positions, ONWA reiterates our call to reinstate a dedicated minister for women and gender equality. ONWA supports the goal of a more efficient, focused, and sustainable government—but the absence of a dedicated cabinet position for women and gender equality will severely hinder efforts to improve Indigenous women’s safety and address the high levels of violence perpetuated against us. It sends a troubling message at a time when anti-rights and anti-women rhetoric is escalating worldwide. It signals to Indigenous women and girls in this country that our lives, our safety and our inherent rights are not a priority.   As Canada is forced to turn its attention toward US relations and protecting the economy, all levels of government must not lose sight of their responsibility to uphold the rights and safety of Indigenous women. The safety, healing, and well-being of Indigenous women must remain a priority as we navigate these times of economic uncertainty together.   Achieving equality for all women and gender diverse people demands dedicated leadership, resources, accountability, and sustained attention. In addition to the reinstatement of a dedicated WAGE minister, ONWA calls for a focus on critical priorities, including:  Investments in Indigenous women’s safety and violence prevention  Flexible, core and capital funding for Indigenous women’s organizations  Investments in policy and research capacity for Indigenous women  Improved access to health, healing and wellness services for Indigenous women and their families  Addressing the overrepresentation of Indigenous women in the justice system  Ensured access to safe and affordable housing for Indigenous Women and their families  Continued work to end residual sex discrimination in the  Indian Act   As the federal government embarks on a new mandate, we need a more inclusive approach to Indigenous relations that ensures Indigenous women and their organizations are involved, consulted, and benefit from resources to address issues that impact their lives, their families and their communities.  Indigenous women have an inherent right, as affirmed by the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), to be involved in decisions that impact our lives. ONWA looks forward to working with Prime Minister Carney, and all Members of Parliament, to uphold the safety and rights of Indigenous women and girls.   For more information and media inquiries, contact:  Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca

Thunder Bay, ON  – April 7 is recognized globally as World Health Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about pressing health issues and advocating for accessible, equitable healthcare for all. This year, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is proud to host a virtual Tea Talk, speaking to Indigenous perspectives on health and wellness. ONWA is honoured to welcome Traditional Knowledge Keeper Laura Calmwind and ONWA’s Land-Based Coordinator Laura Parise. Over tea, they will share invaluable knowledge on the intricate relationship between water and life cycles, as well as the significance of mentorship in childhood and parenthood. Indigenous women hold inherent knowledge about wellness and healing for themselves, their families, and their communities. However, they continue to face significant health inequities and systemic barriers to accessing culturally appropriate and trauma-informed care. Ontario’s healthcare systems must take action to ensure Indigenous women receive prompt, safe, and gender-based services across the continuum of care. Indigenous women-led health services are the safest and most effective for Indigenous women and their families and must be prioritized as a wise practice. ONWA remains dedicated to advocating for Indigenous women’s health by developing, promoting, and enhancing programs that integrate Indigenous perspectives on holistic wellness. We encourage Indigenous women to lead the conversation on health advocacy and for all community members to take action in addressing health inequities. This includes asking critical questions about personal and community wellness, reclaiming traditional ways of healing, and ensuring access to vital healthcare services We warmly invite you to join us for this important discussion. Together, let’s explore ways to nurture our communities and uplift each other on the journey toward better health and empowerment. To register, please visit: https://forms.office.com/r/Fvk20PK1Bu   Currently, Ontario is experiencing a concerning rise in measles cases. By taking preventative action, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones. For more information on health-related topics such as measles, please contact the Mindimooyenh Health Clinic at 807-697-1753 or visit https://www.onwa.ca/health .   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  – Throughout March, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) proudly celebrated Women’s History Month by recognizing the remarkable achievements and contributions of Indigenous women across Ontario. As this year’s celebration concludes, ONWA is honored to share exciting news: six outstanding Indigenous women have been awarded the prestigious inaugural King Charles III Coronation Medal. ONWA had the privilege of nominating the following exceptional leaders for their dedication and commitment to uplifting Indigenous women and their communities: Mary Daoust  (Minwaashin Lodge) Stephanie Mikki Adams  (The Matriarch’s) Roberta Wesley  (Constance Lake Anishnawbe Quek) Tana Troniak  (Sunset Women’s Aboriginal Circle) Norma General Lickers  (Hamilton-Wentworth Chapter of Native Women) Jasmine Van Every  (Deshkan Zii Bi Indigenous Women’s Association) The King Charles III Coronation Medal, established to commemorate His Majesty’s Coronation on May 6, 2023, honors 30,000 exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to their communities. This prestigious recognition reflects values of service, environmental sustainability, and the celebration of Canada’s diversity—values that resonate deeply with Indigenous women’s leadership. ONWA was proud to join in the medal ceremony held on Thursday, March 27, 2025, where Ingrid Green ONWA Interim CEO, delivered heartfelt remarks in recognition of the recipients’ contributions. She emphasized the powerful impact of Indigenous women’s leadership, stating: “This medal is about recognizing the significant difference you make in your communities. Given to less than 1% of the population, this award honors your tireless work, which has had a tremendous impact. Indigenous women do ‘heart work’—we are the medicine. This award affirms that Indigenous women are leading the healing of our families, communities, and Nations.” – Ingrid Green, ONWA Interim CEO From Ottawa to Sioux Lookout, Niagara to Constance Lake, these remarkable leaders are paving the way for future generations by modeling what Indigenous women’s leadership looks like. Their work goes beyond advocacy—it is about healing, empowerment, and creating lasting change. ONWA extends heartfelt congratulations to Mary, Mikki, Tana, Norma, Roberta, and Jasmine. Their dedication and leadership inspire us all. This award is a well-deserved recognition of their contributions, and ONWA is honored to stand alongside them in their continued efforts to uplift Indigenous women across Ontario.   For more information and media inquiries, contact:  Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-   About Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA):  The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is committed to empowering Indigenous women and their families through advocacy, research, policy development, and community-driven programs. Our mission is to support the voices and leadership of Indigenous women in the pursuit of equity, justice, and self-determination. Mary Daoust , Ojbway White Sand First Nation, joined Minwaashin Lodge in 2005 as a Sexual Abuse Counsellor. The support Lodge provides a range of programs and services to the Indigenous community. In 2008, Mary joined management as the Counselling Team Supervisor becoming Acting ED in 2011 and ED in 2014. The spirit of her ancestors led her to pursue her dreams in supporting Indigenous women and children fleeing domestic abuse and violence with a Native Studies and Addictions background. Stephanie Mikki Adams , Executive Director Inuuqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children, Youth and Families, Inuk from Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. Received her Management Studies Certificate in 2001 at the Nunavut Arctic College and her Certified Aboriginal Financial Managers designation from AFOA Canada in 2009. Mikki is the co-chair of the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, board member with CASO Inuit Non-Profit Housing and member of the Indigenous Education Advisory with Ottawa Carleton District School Board. Roberta Wesley , Constance Lake Anishnawbe Quek, has worked with Nishawbe Aski Legal Services for 15 years advocating for restorative justice, Gladue hearings, and the Talking Together Program. Roberta served 10 years as Vice President with Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA). Roberta was 1 of 4 who developed an Alternative Dispute Resolution model in Child Welfare to assist families through holistic healing rather than the court system and dealing with Child & Family Services. Tana Troniak , Sioux Lookout Ontario, Executive Director of First Step Women’s Shelter for the past 15 years has over 30 years of experience working in the Violence Against Women Sector. Tana currently manages two women’s shelters First Step Women’s Shelter, Sioux Lookout, ON, and the Rainy River District Women’s Shelter located in Atikokan, ON. Tana is an advocate for Indigenous women in the shelter system, and the issues surrounding women living in rural and remote first nation communities. Norma General-Lickers Teiotsistaserthe ion kiats – Bright Star is Mohawk, Turtle Clan, Norma was appointed as the 1st Indigenous full-time Justice of the Peace for Southern Ontario in 1989 and a Federal Justice of the Peace in 2001. She is one of the founding members of both Niagara Chapter-Native Women, Inc. and Ganawageh Urban Homes. She previously sat on the Six Nations Police Commission (Elder/Advisor/Community Representative) and was honoured by them in January 2024. Jasmine Van Every , Turtle Clan from the Senedoga Nation, is head of Deshkan Zii Bi Indigenous Women’s Association. With her leadership her group has taken on monumental tasks to support Indigenous women, children and families in her community. She is a change maker, who is innovative in ways to approach and work alongside community organizations who drive change. Mother, Daughter, and Sister to a wonderful family she has strong roots in community service and helping others.

Thunder Bay, ON  – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) offers our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and community of Ashlee Shingoose, also known as Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe or "Buffalo Woman". Ashlee Christine Shingoose has finally had her name and identity restored after police confirmed on March 27 that she was the sole unidentified victim of Winnipeg serial killer Jeremy Skibicki. The name Mashkode Bizhiki'ikwe, or Buffalo Woman, had been gifted to her by members of the Indigenous community. ONWA stands in solidarity with Ashlee’s family members in calling for the search of the Brady Road landfill in Winnipeg to recover her remains so that she can finally return home. We recognize and honour the tireless efforts of all survivors, families and loved ones who refuse to let our missing and stolen sisters be forgotten. As we honor the life of Ashlee Shingoose, ONWA will continue to hold all levels of government accountable for protecting and upholding Indigenous women’s rights – including our fundamental right to life.   If you or a loved one is experiencing or is impacted by violence, support is available. Talk4Healing offers 24/7 help, support, and resources for Indigenous women by Indigenous women. To talk to someone, call or text the toll-free service at 1-855-554-HEAL (4324) or visit http://talk4healing.com   The Hope for Wellness Help Line provides immediate mental health counseling and crisis intervention to all Indigenous people across Canada. This toll-free service is also accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To talk with someone, please call 1-855-242-3310.   To learn more about how you can help end violence against the women in your life explore: ONWA’s Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls (MMIWG) learning and resource page: https://www.onwa.ca/learning-resources-mmiwg The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence - Women and Gender Equality Canada report: https://www.canada.ca/en/women-gender-equality/gender-based-violence/intergovernmental-collaboration/national-action-plan-end-gender-based-violence.html The Centre for Research & Education on Violence Against Women & Children resources and programming: https://www.learningtoendabuse.ca   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  – Today, and every March 22nd since 1993, the world focuses on the importance of safe water as we recognize World Water Day. Water is not simply necessary for life; it is a living spirit. World Water Day is a reminder of our collective responsibility to hold our governments and industries accountable for their role in protecting Mother Earth. As Water Carriers and caretakers of our traditional lands and waterways, Indigenous women are uniquely impacted by the wellbeing of water. The climate crisis threatens our cultural practices, our medicines, and our ceremonies, which are inextricably connected to our lands and our waters. There are 2 billion people living without access to safe water, including many First Nations communities across Canada. However, we know that Indigenous women and girls are strong, resilient, and working to reclaim our relationship with Mother Earth and hold governments and industries to account. This month, Asubpeeschoseewagong Netum Anishinabek (Grassy Narrows First Nation) celebrated a hard-fought victory – the groundbreaking of a long-promised specialized medical care facility for those suffering from mercury poisoning. This milestone highlights the tireless efforts of the community, but more action is urgently needed to address the intergenerational impact of mercury contamination in Grassy Narrows. The health, cultural practices, plant medicine, and food security of community members continue to be jeopardized. On this important day of recognition, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) asks you to pause and reflect on the state of our sacred water. We call on you to consider ways that we can each make a difference, how collectively we can make a global impact on the health of our water systems. No matter how small the action you take, every action makes a difference. Community is invited to sit with ONWA Grandmother Renee Thomas-Hill in the Virtual Lodge from 3:00-4:00pm (EST) on March 22. Grandmother Renee will be sharing water teachings and instructions on how to do a water offering to acknowledge World Water Day. Register now at: https://forms.office.com/r/rz0sKcnFvj   For more information and media inquiries, contact:  Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca -30-