The Ontario Native Women’s Association is acknowledging the progress that has been made to help women, children and families in the region.
Executive Director Cora McGuire-Cyrette will remain in her post, saying “”A lot of people don’t believe the truth of what’s happening. So, we’re going to continue that advocacy. We’re going to continue to fight to be recognized. Indigenous women have a right to be safe in our communities. Because our community isn’t safe if Indigenous women aren’t safe.”
Debra Vermette takes over as President of ONWA, which is celebrating its 50th year.
McGuire-Cyrette outlines what the future holds, stressing the priority is protecting families and coming together.
“We’re going to continue to do the amazing work that we’ve been doing for these past 50 years. We’ve celebrated providing services to over 55,000 people in one year, during a pandemic, so it really goes to show when we collectively work together as a team to meet the communities needs, what we can accomplish together.”
ONWA allows for easy access to inclusive, trauma informed, culturally based programming and services that are informed by Indigenous women and their immediate needs across Ontario.
The Association has a chapter in Sioux Lookout.
(With Files From Katie Nicholls: Thunder Bay)
