Winter 2011 - Ontario Native Womens Association

Circular on light background
Circular on dark background
TO TELL GOOD NEWS
As you celebrate the holiday season with
your family and friends, may you share
the spirit of healing, health and peace.
Warmest wishes from the
Board, Grandmothers
and Staff of
Ontario Native Women’s Association.
ONWA Announces Winner of 3rd Annual Poetry Contest
On October 24th, 2011, the Ontario Native Women’s
Association (ONWA) launched its third annual Poetry Contest
to help raise awareness about violence against Aboriginal
women and the impact it has on families. This contest was
sponsored by ONWA in support of the International Day for
the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
and for that, I am grateful.”
She continued, “I strongly believe that the poverty issues First
Nations experience should be addressed. I wrote the poem
because in most cases when a people are oppressed, they
oppress the women.”
As the winner, Roxann will receive a $100 Gift Card
to Chapters and her poem will be featured in various
publications including ONWA’s Annual Poetry Book and
Newsletter. Congratulations Roxann! (Poem on page 3)
Roxann Whitebean’s poem “Broken” was selected as this
year’s winning entry.
Roxann is a 27 year old mother of four from the Mohawk
Nation and is one of the founding members of “First Peoples
FOR First Peoples” - an organization that offers assistance to
sister nations living in poverty on Turtle Island.
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A compilation of last year’s Poetry Contest submissions
is now available. To obtain a copy, please contact:
Lorene Rego, Ontario Native Women’s Association,
E-mail: communications@onwa-tbay.ca or
Phone: (807) 623-3442 Toll Free: 1-800-667-0816
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When Roxann was informed that her
poem was the winning entry, she
responded by saying, “ I would like
to thank ONWA for giving Aboriginal
women the opportunity to share one of
our many talents through their annual
poetry contest. I have been given the
chance to use my voice for our people
ONWA would like to thank all of this year’s participants for
generously sharing such beautiful and honest words
about this very important issue of violence against
Aboriginal women and their families.
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2
Breaking the Silence …
Against Violence
2.
International Day for the Elimination
of Violence Against Women
November 25th, 2011
November 25th has been designated as a day to fight violence
against women and is internationally recognized as the “Day
for Elimination of Violence Against Women.” ONWA together
with The Learning Café organized an Open Mic Night in order
to take part in this international observance and to bring
awareness to the scale and the true nature of the violence
against Aboriginal women.
This event was open to everyone and several community
members and performers attended throughout the evening.
Many shared songs, poems and other personal expressions
about this important issue. Poetry submissions from ONWA’s
3rd Annual Poetry Contest were featured including the
winning entry, “Broken,” which was submitted by Roxann
Whitebean from Akwasasne, Ontario. (See page 3)
3.
ONWA extends a special thank you to all the participants for
generously sharing their talents and personal expressions
and to Robin Ranger, Paul Reese and The Learning Café for
allowing us to use their wonderful facilities.
1.
4.
5.
1: Paul Reese from The Learning Café not only served as the evening’s MC,
but he also performed some songs for the group.
2: Pictured here is the daughter of one of the performers. She was happily
playing and dancing along to her father’s drumming.
3: Pictured here is Kahla Moses, Community Wellness Worker for ONWA and
Raymond Moonias, Poet and one of the evening’s performers.
4: Pictured here are three performers who joined their talents together to
perform a song.
5: Roxann Shapwaykeesic is shown here reading ONWA’s 2010 Poetry Book.
She is the Art Director for Wawatay Native Communications Society and is
the creative force behind the book’s look and layout.
3
The Sharing Circle
In everything we do as professionals, as community members
and as family members we strive to keep grounded in our culture,
language and heritage. In order to maintain our culture and
pass it on to future generations, it is important to share cultural
teachings, speak our languages and embrace our family traditions
and heritage. It is our hope that having “The Sharing Circle” in
this newsletter is one way we can share these with one another
and be reminded of their importance.
Sacred Medicines
The sacred medicines are beautiful to the spirit; they can provide
a person with inner strength, calm the mind and spirit, purify,
cleanse, and have the power to heal. They are all to be used
in a noble way, a good heart, with an open - clear mind and
a receptive spirit. The cleansing of one’s body helps the mind
and spirit release any bad feelings along with negative thoughts and energies; thus allowing us
communication with the Great Spirit. Our prayers are taken up with the smoke to the Creator.
The four sacred medicines are:
Tobacco:
A spirit gift that promotes strength and courage.
Cedar:
A medicine from the trees that promotes honesty.
Sage:
A medicine from the plants that promotes sharing.
Sweet Grass:
Mother Earth’s hair braided, it represents the coming together and the
balance of the body, mind and spirit, promoting kindness.
Submitted by Stacey Taylor, Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy Children Family Home Visitor—ONWA Greenstone/Geraldton.
Broken
Roxann Whitebean, November 22, 2011
Body prints covered, we’re scarred deep within
We are destined to live in pain, our race is a sin.
We were just children, and you took that all away
You hurt us immensely, we face it every day.
Glass shattered in a broken home, look at what you’ve done
I’ve realized it’s all my fault, you are your father’s son.
Look around our life is over, there’s nothing left to do
You never stopped or got the help, so I am leaving you.
How could I be so foolish, to speak to him this way
My head is throbbing from that hit. It’s time for change today.
I think I’ll just be quiet, until he goes to sleep
I’m packing up and leaving town, let’s hope the kids don’t weep.
This freezing night we’re teary eyed, we’ll be there very soon
I’m scared to death what will we do? I pray to grandma moon.
Roxann Whitebean with daughter.
Take a stand to end the violence, your new life will begin.
My indigenous sisters are proud and strong, it only starts within.
4
Program Update and Activities
ONWA’s Problem Gambling Awareness & Prevention program
offers assistance to Aboriginal women and their families
who are experiencing problems related to gambling or who
are concerned about someone’s gambling. The program
seeks to deliver culturally appropriate
services including community awareness
campaigns, education and prevention
information and workshops, and
referrals to other community services or
programs.
The Problem Gambling Awareness
& Prevention program was recently
involved with the following events and
activities:
· Travelled to Terrace Bay to
participate in their Community
Health Fair September 1st, 2011
– this was their first community
health fair, which was a success
and ONWA’s Diabetes & Problem
Gambling were invited to come back
next year.
· Attended Biidaajiwun Inc.’s Annual
General Meeting on September
14th, 2011
· Supported the Fall Harvest hosted
by the Community Coalition Unified
for the Protection of our Children
and Youth (CCUPCY) at Fort William
Historical Park in Thunder Bay.
Assisted the community Elders
who educated youth and other
community members about the fall
harvest teachings and traditional
activities associated with the harvest.
Free Tai Chi and Yoga Classes for Older Adults
Mind and Body
Improve Balance, Strength and Endurance
Ontario Native Women’s Association
(ONWA) is offering FREE Tai Chi and Yoga
classes for Aboriginal Women aged 55 – 70+
years.
Tai Chi and Yoga are mind-body exercise
programs that combine physical movements,
and poses with meditation or breathing. If
you are looking for a low-impact, relaxing
form of exercise that only requires about 20
minutes a day and rewards your efforts, Tai
Chi and Yoga are for you.
REGISTER NOW
EVENT DETAILS:
What:
Yoga and Tai Chi Classes
When:
Yoga
Sept. 22nd - 2 pm to 3 pm
Oct. 6th, 13th, 20th - 2 pm to 3 pm
*Yoga classes will be the first 3
Thursdays of each month thereafter.
This program commences September 22nd,
2011 and will be available until March 2012.
The classes are 1 hour in length and are
designed to meet individual fitness and
flexibility needs. Although this program is
geared towards Aboriginal women 55 years of
age and older, family members and others are
welcome!
Sept. 29th - 2 pm to 3 pm
Oct. 27th - 2 pm to 3 pm
Nov. 24th - 2 pm to 3 pm
*Tai Chi classes will be the 4th
Thursday of each month thereafter.
Please wear comfortable clothing and bring
your own yoga mat and water bottle. A
limited supply of
yoga mats will be
available to borrow
for the class. Always
consult a physician or
health care provider
before starting a new
exercise program.
Space is limited. For more information
or to register, please contact Verna
Legarde at 807- 623-3442 or
gambling@onwa-tbay.ca.
· Attended Atikokan Health Day
November 4th, 2011 and travelled to
Fort Erie on November 10th, 2011 to
participate in their Health & Wellness
Day for their community members
and families
· Participated in weekly ONWA Program Workshops held
in the Thunder Bay office
Submitted by Verna Legarde, Problem Gambling Awareness & Prevention
Worker – ONWA Thunder Bay
Tai Chi
Where:
Workshop Room
Ontario Native Women’s Association
380 Ray Blvd ∙ Thunder Bay, ON
Please note the building is not
accessible for those who are not able
to access stairs.
5
Program Update and Activities
As ONWA’s Aboriginal Diabetes and Prevention Worker, I am
grateful for the opportunity I had to attend the Canadian
Diabetes Association’s Professional Conference and Annual
Meeting held in Toronto, October 2011.
Over 2,500 people from across Canada were in attendance.
The workshops I attended were very informative and allowed
for audience members to interact with the presenters. I was
very impressed with the symposium entitled, “Diabetes and
Aboriginal Population” as it featured success stories that
Aboriginal agencies had experienced within the last year. A
local agency, Ka’nen and former ONWA worker Alta Fenton
delivered a presentation that described their work in the fight
against diabetes. The highlight of the conference was the
presentation “Balancing Traditional and Western Medicine”
by Kathy Bird, RN and Cree Medicine Woman from Winnipeg,
Manitoba. She spoke of the many years she was trained as
a Medicine Woman and had many medicines to show and
explain their uses.
Submitted by: Bob Fenton, Aboriginal Diabetes Awareness and Prevention
Worker —ONWA Thunder Bay
Eagle Staff Feast
As ONWA’s Eagle Staff keepers, Verna Legarde and I held a feast in October. The teachings we received indicated that the feasts
should be held in the spring when the trees begin to bud and in the autumn when the leaves begin to fall.
The ceremony and feast was a wonderful experience as we said Miigwetch to the Creator and the Eagle Spirit. The Creator
was with us as well as the Ancestors and Grandmothers and Grandfathers. After the ceremony and feast were finished, those
present in the Circle had a time of sharing and healing. Miigwetch Creator, Ancestors, Grandmothers and Grandfathers for
being with us at that time.
Later when I left the office to make the offering, I asked the Creator to show me where I should go. He led me to Boulevard
Lake. I drove around the lake, not sure where I should stop. I pulled into a parking lot and sat there drinking my coffee. I
happened to glance out the window and to my amazement an Eagle was circling over my car. I watched the Eagle for several
minutes. Oh my, it was so beautiful and big. I could see its white tail feathers spread out like a fan. I felt so close to it and knew
that the ceremony and feast had been done correctly. The Eagle then flew to the North and disappeared from sight. . I still
hadn’t made the offering. Suddenly I had the feeling to make the offering close to the water. As I walked closer to the water,
I came to a spot that felt right to make the offering. When I bent over to place the offering on Mother Earth and stood to
say my prayer, another Eagle was circling overheard. This Eagle was different from the first. I cannot fully explain it other
than to say it was a Spirit Eagle. Miigwetch Creator and Eagle Spirit for showing me all is well and my responsibility to the
Eagle Staff had been met and accepted.
Submitted by: Bob Fenton, Aboriginal Diabetes Awareness and Prevention Worker —ONWA Thunder Bay
6
Stress, depression and the holidays: Tips for coping
Stress and depression can ruin your holidays
and hurt your health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support can help
ward off stress and depression.
The holiday season often brings unwelcome guests — stress
and depression. And it’s no wonder. The holidays present
a dizzying array of demands — parties, shopping, baking,
cleaning and entertaining, to name just a few.
But with some practical tips, you can minimize the stress that
accompanies the holidays. You may even end up enjoying the
holidays more than you thought you would.
Tips to prevent holiday stress and depression
When stress is at its peak, it’s hard to stop and regroup. Try
to prevent stress and depression in the first place, especially if
the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past.
1. Acknowledge your feelings. If someone close to you has
recently died or you can’t be with loved ones, realize that
it’s normal to feel sadness and grief. It’s OK to take time to
cry or express your feelings. You can’t force yourself to be
happy just because it’s the holiday season.
2. Reach out. If you feel lonely or isolated, seek out
community, religious or other social events. They can
offer support and companionship. Volunteering your time
to help others also is a good way to lift your spirits and
broaden your friendships.
3. Be realistic. The holidays don’t have to be perfect or just
like last year. As families change and grow, traditions and
rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to,
and be open to creating new ones. For example, if your
adult children can’t come to your house, find new ways
to celebrate together, such as sharing pictures, emails or
videos.
4. Set aside differences. Try to accept family members
and friends as they are, even if they don’t live up to all
of your expectations. Set aside grievances until a more
appropriate time for discussion. And be understanding if
others get upset or distressed when something goes awry.
Chances are they’re feeling the effects of holiday stress and
depression, too.
5. Stick to a budget. Before you go gift and food shopping,
decide how much money you can afford to spend. Then
stick to your budget. Don’t try to buy happiness with
an avalanche of gifts. Try these alternatives: Donate to a
charity in someone’s name, give homemade gifts or start a
family gift exchange.
6. Plan ahead. Set aside specific days for shopping, baking,
visiting friends and other activities. Plan your menus and
then make your shopping list. That’ll help prevent lastminute scrambling to buy forgotten ingredients. And make
sure to line up help for party prep and cleanup.
7. Learn to say no. Saying yes when you should say no can
leave you feeling resentful and overwhelmed. Friends and
colleagues will understand if you can’t participate in every
project or activity. If it’s not possible to say no when your
boss asks you to work overtime, try to remove something
else from your agenda to make up for the lost time.
8. Don’t abandon healthy habits. Don’t let the holidays
become a free-for-all. Overindulgence only adds to your
stress and guilt. Have a healthy snack before holiday parties
so that you don’t go overboard on sweets, cheese or
drinks. Continue to get plenty of sleep and physical activity.
9. Take a breather. Make some time for yourself. Spending
just 15 minutes alone, without distractions, may refresh
you enough to handle everything you need to do. Take
a walk at night and stargaze. Listen to soothing music.
Find something that reduces stress by clearing your mind,
slowing your breathing and restoring inner calm.
10. Seek professional help if you need it. Despite your best
efforts, you may find yourself feeling persistently sad or
anxious, plagued by physical complaints, unable to sleep,
irritable and hopeless, and unable to face routine chores.
If these feelings last for a while, talk to your doctor or a
mental health professional.
Take control of the holidays
Don’t let the holidays become something you dread. Instead,
take steps to prevent the stress and depression that can
descend during the holidays. Learn to recognize your holiday
triggers, such as financial pressures or personal demands, so
you can combat them before they lead to a meltdown. With a
little planning and some positive thinking, you can find peace
and joy during the holidays.
By Mayo Clinic Staff - http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/
stress/MH00030
Submitted by: Debbie Sault, Mental Health Coordinator—ONWA Thunder Bay
7
ONWA WINTER COLOURING CONTEST
All children aged 0-15 years old are welcome to enter ONWA’s
Winter Colouring Contest.
Completed Colouring Pages can be mailed to:
Attn: Debbie Sault, Mental Health Coordinator
Ontario Native Women’s Association
380 Ray Blvd, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 4E6
Deadline for Entries is Tuesday, January 31st, 2012.
A $30 Walmart Gift card will be awarded to winners in three
age categories:
0-4 yrs, 5-9 yrs, 10-15 yrs
8
ONWA’s Team—New Staff Introductions
Cora-Lee McGuire Cyrette
Cora-Lee joined ONWA’s team once again in October 2011 as the Program Manager of Services in the
Thunder Bay office.
Cora-Lee McGuire-Cyrette is wife and a mother to three beautiful children Andrew, Tyra and Jordan. She is
also a proud new Nookimis of two little boys Grayson and Jamie!
She has completed an undergraduate degree in Bachelor of the Arts, with a double major concentration
in Indigenous Learning and Sociology from Lakehead University as well as Micro Computer Certification
from Academy of Learning. Her previous experience with ONWA includes the positions of Health Policy
Analyst, Human Resources/Office Manager, Human Resources Director, Program Director and Interim
Executive Director.
Lana Ray
Lana Ray joined ONWA’s Team in November 2011 as the Policy and Research Director in the Thunder Bay
office.
Lana is an Anishnaabe-kwe from Red Rock First Nation (Lake Helen). She is from the muskellunge clan
and her spirit name is waaskone giizhigook which means, “the light that shines”. She holds a Master’s
of Public Health from Lakehead University, and an Honours Bachelor degree from McMaster University.
Currently she is a PhD Candidate at Trent University. Her dissertation research, within an Anishnaabe
context, asserts that Indigenous women had and continue to have their own complex knowledge
systems, which include understandings about the nature of knowledge, knowledge processes, and
knowledge translation. Guided by the phrase “kinoo’amaadawaad megwaa doodamawaad” (learning with each other
while we are doing), which emerged from her community, and beading which are used as a theoretical and methodological
framework respectively, she is exploring how Anishnaabe women’s knowledge is being utilized within academic research
methodologies.
Aside from her academic endeavors, Lana has also been an active member within Indigenous communities. She is a former
board member of Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services, has co-chaired numerous gatherings such as the Indigenous
women’s symposium, and has been involved in the founding and development of Indigenous community gardens.
Shelley Knott
Boozhoo, Aaniin, Sekoh,
I am very pleased to be granted the opportunity to return back to Ontario Native Women’s Association as the Program
Manager of Services. It is wonderful to see so many fellow co-workers and meet new individuals who have joined the
organization over the past two years.
For the new team members I would like to take this opportunity to formally introduce myself; I am Shelley Knott and I am
a Nishnawbe Kwe from Curve Lake First Nations, although I was born and raised in a small Métis community. I have been
involved with the movement of enhancing the lives of Aboriginal women and their children for many years, as my family
(community) started one of the first locals for ONWA.
I have had the opportunity to work at the grassroots level, provincially and nationally advocating on behalf of Aboriginal
women and their families. I have held various positions throughout my career within the front line service and management.
I am a graduate of the Native Child and Family Program and have completed a number of certifications to enhance my
knowledge and skill. I looked forward to my new role at ONWA and very excited to be part of an amazing team!
Brenda Polar
In October 2011, I accepted the position of Health Policy Analyst with ONWA. I am very excited to join
your team. I will be following up with projects that the former health policy analyst was involved with. I
am grateful to be in this role where, together with a team, I will research and develop program initiatives
to explore effective services that support Aboriginal women and communities.
With a social work background, my professional experience was in mental health and shelter settings
that includes working with marginalized communities, ethnic minorities and Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and
Transgender (LGBT) communities.
I look forward to getting to know the ONWA team, and contributing to the agency’s vision.
9
The Angel Tree
Please make the Angel Tree a part of
your Christmas Tradition.
Visit The Angel Tree at the Bargain Shop in Geraldton
this holiday season.
Shoppers choose a child’s Angel gift tag off the tree,
purchase a gift, and return it to a sales associate in order to process the gift
and see that it gets packed on Santa’s sleigh for Christmas delivery to the less
fortunate children in our community.
The Angel Tree:
November 20 – December 23, 2011
The project is a true partnership between the community and businesses
in order to make a difference, so please get involved.
Greenstone/Geraldton
This year marks the fifth year of the Angel Tree, which is a community initiative carried out in
partnership with the Bargain Shop. Everyone is encouraged to support The Angel Tree as in years past
it has been a great success in supporting families in need around the holidays.
Hamilton
Hamilton’s Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy Children’s Program hosted a Harvest Social for our
families on November 1st. Drumming by Hamilton’s youth drum, Young Spirit, dancing, and
feasting was a great time for the 70 people who participated.
We are getting ready for the Christmas season by having a Christmas craft workshop where we
made mocktails, dreamcatcher wreaths, and Christmas ornaments. Also our Christmas Toy Bingo,
in partnership with Niwasa Headstart, was a huge success. Money raised goes toward parenting
programs. In the past, money raised went toward workshops such a hand-drum making, moss
bags, and drum bags.
We’d like to wish you all a happy holiday season, from Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy
Children at the Hamilton site.
Submitted by Amy Smith, Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy Children Family Home Visitor—ONWA Hamilton.
Sioux Lookout
With Christmas fast approaching, the AHBHC program has been busy in the Sioux Lookout
office with crafts, baking, and preparing for our annual Christmas feast. Our fall feast,
which took place in October, was highly successful, with over 75 people attending. With
this in mind, we anticipate a large turnout for the festivities scheduled for December 7!
The fall was very busy for the AHBHC program in Sioux Lookout. In addition to home
visiting, the program participated in infant massage sessions, parenting classes,
community kitchens, and craft programming, such as crocheting and scrapbooking.
Other activities included pumpkin carving, Drug Endangered Children training, and a
presentation to the northern doctors on the importance of breastfeeding.
As always, I am looking forward to trying new things, learning and
growing in my position, and meeting new families in the new year!
Happy holidays from Sioux Lookout, and best wishes to everyone in
2012!
Submitted by Candi Edwards, Aboriginal Healthy Babies Healthy Children Family
Home Visitor, ONWA Sioux Lookout
10
Good to Know for Winter
Car Safety Tips
Keep your headlights clear with car wax! Just wipe
ordinary car wax on your headlights. It contains special
water repellents that will prevent that messy mixture from
accumulating on your lights - lasts 6 weeks.
vinegar to one part water and spritz it on all your windows at
night. In the morning, they’ll be clear of icy mess. Vinegar
contains acetic acid, which raises the melting point of water--preventing water from freezing!
Squeak-proof your wipers with rubbing alcohol! Wipe
the wipers with a cloth saturated with rubbing alcohol or
ammonia. This one trick can make badly streaking
and squeaking wipers change to
near perfect silence and
clarity
Prevent car doors from freezing shut with cooking spray!
Spritz cooking oil on the rubber seals around car doors and
rub it in with a paper towel The cooking spray prevents water
from melting into the rubber.
Ice-proof your
windows with
vinegar! Frost
on the way? Just
fill a spray bottle
with three parts
Fog-proof your windshield with shaving cream! Spray some
shaving cream on the inside of your windshield and wipe if
off with paper towels. Shaving cream has many of the same
ingredients found in commercial defoggers.
De-ice your lock in seconds with hand sanitizer! Just put some
hand sanitizer gel on the key and the lock.
Submitted by: Debbie Sault, Mental Health Coordinator—ONWA Thunder Bay
Are you an Aboriginal Woman Needing Assistance
Entering the Job Market?
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy is
geared to assisting Aboriginal women with employment and
training initiatives to ensure their participation in the labour
market. This program was initially developed as Aboriginal
women face multiple barriers when it comes to employment.
The funding for the program is specific to Aboriginal women
who live off-reserve and who are living in the province of
Ontario.
Types of Employment and Training Initiatives:
Targeted wage subsidies applies to individuals who are
having difficulties finding work. Aboriginal women face
multiple barriers to employment including a lack of on the
job experience. Aboriginal women can access this type of
project which offer temporary wage subsidies to employers
as in incentive to hire individuals they may not have otherwise
hired.
Job Creation Partnership is a program that provides
individuals with work experience to improve their long term
employment prospects. Local labour market partnership
enables the creation of community based partnerships
and supports the development of strategies to expand
employment opportunities and economic successes.
Skills Enhancement is the employment benefit program
that assists individuals to obtain the skills they need for
employment. It does so by providing them with financial
assistance to help pay for the costs of skills training courses or
programs including the following:
· Course and tuition costs
· Travel and living allowances
· Special equipment and supports
· License or certificate fees
· Client assessments
Other services that are provided through the ASETS
program are as follows (no funding attached):
· Service needs assessment
· Employment counselling
· Return to work action plan development
· Labour market information
· Access to computers with internet connection for job
search and resume development
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy
focuses on linking training initiatives to labour market
demand. In doing so, this will ensure Aboriginal women are
able to fully participate in economic opportunities that offer
meaningful sustainable employment. For more information
or to check on eligibility, please contact Ingrid Green, ASETS
Coordinator at asets@onwa-tbay.ca.
Funding for this program is provided through the Native
Women’s Association of Canada and Human Resources and
Skills Development Canada
Submitted by: Ingrid Green, ASETS Coordinator—ONWA Thunder Bay
11
Honouring Aboriginal Women
2011 AGA Award Recipients
Native Woman of the Year Award
This award is presented annually to an Aboriginal Woman who has served her people compassionately in all
areas of community service, and in particular, demonstrated skill and dedication to the Provincial movement
of the Ontario Native Women’s Association.
In recognition of her active involvement with her community’s Native Women’s Centre and for her role in
securing funds to purchase a building for an Aboriginal Women’s Tranistional Housing program, this award
was presented to:
Linda Ense, Hamilton Wentworth Chapter of Native Women
Achievement Award
This award is presented to a local member of the Association who has been nominated by her peers for her
endeavors and contributions to her community, and has had an impact upon the quality of life of Aboriginal
Women and their families.
In recognition of her shining example of determination and strength and for making a healthy life choice to
quit smoking after 60 years and achieving one year smoke-free, this award was presented to:
Dorothy Wynne, Kapuskasing Native Women’s Group
Local of the Year Award
The Ontario Native Women’s Association recognizes a Local from each region for their accomplishments
and contributions to their communities. Locals are chosen based on completing and submitting a survey to
ONWA.
In recognition of their long-term affiliation with ONWA; their active involvement with their community; and
their success is securing funding for an Aboriginal Women’s Transitional Housing program, this award was
presented to:
Hamilton Wentworth Chapter of Native Women (Linda Ense accepts award on behalf of Hamilton Wentworth Chapter of
Native Women)
Alice Souliere Bursary Award
In 1993, ONWA established the Alice Souliere Bursary Award to commemorate Alice’s contribution to the
Association. This bursary was established to encourage individuals to pursue First Language Studies. The
recipient should have demonstrated either the personal pursuit of language development or have assisted in
community projects that promote language development.
In recognition of her involvement with community projects that focused on bringing Aboriginal youth and
the community together to learn the Anishnaabe Native language, this award was presented to:
Shannon Slipperjack, Biidaajiwun Inc.
2011 Employee of the Year
The Employee of the Year Award recognizes an employee who has demonstrated hard work, dedication and
passion in their work at ONWA. The recipient is nominated and selected by his or her peers at ONWA.
In recognition of her hard work and positive attitude in her role as Community Wellness Worker, this award
was presented to:
Rachel Periard
12
2011 40th Annual General Assembly
...40 years forward
The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) hosted
its 40th Annual General Assembly in Thunder Bay on
November 26th and 27th, 2011. This two-day event
brought all of ONWA’s members together to discuss, resolve
and recommend for action the many issues facing Aboriginal
women and their families across Ontario.
There were sixteen resolutions brought forward and approved
by the membership for the upcoming year. The resolutions
will focus on issues related to culturally relevant curriculum
and post secondary school support; suitable housing on
and off reserve; capacity building in the northern region;
prescription drug abuse; racial discrimination; unstated and
unknown paternity; environmental research advocacy and
protection including water protection and Earth Day Clean
Up; high rates of Aboriginal children involved with child
protective services; over-representation of Aboriginal women
in the justice system; and the prevalence of youth suicide and
accidental deaths in the District of Thunder Bay.
In addition to the Annual General Assembly, ONWA held a
series of Engagement Sessions, an Election for 1-year term
Board members; an awards ceremony recognizing individual
and local membership achievements; and a showcase of a
number of local artisans, crafters, and organizations.
The theme for the AGA was “40 years forward,” which not
only celebrated where ONWA started and what it has become
in 40 years; but also what ONWA will be in the future. The
theme also incorporated the butterfly. Some Anishinaabek
hold the belief that the butterfly is a messenger to the spirit
world. Long ago children were told that if they whispered
their dreams and wishes to a butterfly, they would be carried
to the Creator. Upon arrival to the AGA, delegates were given
a butterfly and were asked to print their “wishes” for ONWA
on the back of their butterflies. The butterflies were then
hung on ONWA’s “Wishing Tree” which is used as an object
of wishes and offerings to the Creator. These trees historically
possess a spiritual value for some Native peoples. By tradition,
believers make offerings in the fulfillment of a wish.
2011-2012 Board of Directors
Election Results
This year’s election included only those positions that were
elected in October 2010 and that held one-year terms, which
were eight in total (excluding the Grandmothers Council).
ONWA is very pleased to introduce its 2011-2012 Board of
Directors. (The positions in bold indicate the positions that
were up for election; the ones with a * indicate a new member
elected to the Board.)
Northern
Region
Southern
Region
Western
Region
Eastern
Region
Agnes Bachmann
Director
Dawn Harvard
President
Claudia LeGarde
Director
Chantal Sutherland
Secretary
Sharon Sapay*
Director
Wendy Sturgeon
Treasurer
Corrine Nabigon
Director
Connie
Manitowabi
Vice President
Lishia Brown*
Director
Gloria AlvernazMulcahy
Director
Roberta Wesley
Director
Roberta
Oshkawbewisans*
Director
Ann Wilson
Grandmother
Elize Hartley
Grandmother
Pam Bertin
Grandmother
Sandra Carr
Grandmother
Kelly Chartrand
Youth
Regina Mandamin
Youth
Syndyn Baxter
Youth
Roxy Bird
Youth
ONWA’s Wishing Tree
To make our wishes come true whisper it to the butterfly.
Upon its wings it will be taken to the spirit world and granted...
...for they are the messengers of the Creator.
13
Community Wellness
Program Updates and Activities
Community Health Outreach
Program Updates and Activities
Thunder Bay
Greenstone/Geraldton
Bi-weekly at Ontario Native Women’s Association the two
Community Wellness Workers; Rachel Periard and Kahla
Moses facilitate a Community Kitchen for our clients and their
family to attend. During the Community Kitchen we provide
simple ways to stretch your dollars through menu planning
and recipes using your leftovers. Participants prepare our
lunch for the day, as well as the evening meal at home. We
encourage and welcome recipes from our families that they
would be interested in preparing.
Submitted by Pam Tremblay, Community Health Outreach Worker—ONWA
Greenstone/Geraldton
The Community Wellness Program has impacted the
Community on different levels through programming, home
visiting, information booths, and working one and one with
clients. Some of the programming includes Hoop Dancing,
Women’s Sharing Circle, Wednesday Workshops, and
Community Kitchen. During these programs we include all
aspects of our Aboriginal Culture.
During one of our
Community Kitchens
where we made Indian
Tacos, some of the families
improvised for dessert and
came up with a Dessert
Taco (pictured below). The
dessert taco was made by
layering yogurt, sliced fresh fruit and granola over sweet fry
bread bannock.
Submitted by Rachel Periard, Community Wellness Worker—ONWA Thunder
Bay
Deadline for Minwaajimo
Submissions
Spring 2012 Edition
ONWA is now accepting submissions for its spring
2012 edition of the Minwaajimo Newsletter. If you or
your Local would like to make a submission featuring
a Local, a cultural teaching, issue or topic featured
in this newsletter, please send your submission
to: Lorene Rego, Media &Communications Officer,
communications@onwa-tbay.ca.
The Deadline for Submissions is
Friday, April 13th, 2011
The Craft Circle at the ONWA office in Greenstone began
with two Elder’s. Currently, there are ten Elders that come
every Tuesday evening to make moccasins and to do beading.
Some bring their own crafts and materials and others will use
the materials supplied through the program. While crafting,
the Elders talk about being in Residential schools and other
experiences like these that still impact their communities and
families. The Craft Circle is a place where the Elders not only
share their life experiences but they also help each other heal.
In December, the Craft Circle will include making homemade
soup and bannock to enjoy while doing crafts.
Thunder Bay ~ Biidaajiwun Inc
Biidaajiwun Inc is a Community Health
Outreach Centre located in the heart of
Westfort and all Thunder Bay residents
are welcome to attend the centre’s
activities and events. Biidaajiwun
provides weekly programs that focus on
health, youth and culture. All programs
and services are FREE to attend and all
interested people are encouraged to participate.
It has been a great year and the New Year to come will bring
even more great ventures. We are really looking forward
to the Ojibway Language circle which will be held every
Thursday evening at 6:30pm. The main focus will be to learn
and share the language. Please come out and attend!
Biidaajiwun’s Christmas Potluck dinner will be held on
Thursday, December 15, 2011 at 6:00pm. Please bring a
dish to share, but is not necessary to attend. However, your
APPETITE is required and we really hope to see you there.
Please drop by and visit the centre. If you would like a current
calendar sent to you, please contact Shannon Slipperjack
at 807-474-3542 or comhow@tbaytel.net. We also have
a Facebook page Biidaajiwun Inc that has Biidaajiwun’s
calendar posted as well.
Happy Holidays!!!!
from Biidaajiwun Inc.
Submitted by Shannon
Slipperjack, Community
Health Outreach Worker,
ONWA/Biidaajiwun
Thunder Bay
14
Research
and Respect:
2011 40th Annual General Assembly
1.
Respecting Indigenous Ethics
and Protocols in Research
As we know, research is important for numerous reasons. It
provides current and relevant statistical data, raises awareness
of issues that are important to us that may otherwise be
ignored, and is often the basis for justifying monies needed
for programs to support our needs; it’s also capable of
influencing government policy and legislation, a very
important impact that cannot be overlooked.
Research, often a source of mistrust among indigenous
people, is clearly something we have to participate more
meaningfully in; we have to be involved in the development
of those processes used to conduct research about us and our
lands. We cannot afford to refuse participation, so must assert
our position as equal partners. This is where ethics come into
play. Ethics related to indigenous subjects means defining the
right and wrong way to work with us. As indigenous peoples,
we have numerous historical protocols, practices and/or
beliefs that respect our traditions and culture. So, these same
principles e.g. Grandfather Teachings, Governance, etc. must
be considered by those seeking to partner with us.
Those indigenous communities or organizations approached
by either academic or private researchers, or who wish to
initiate partnerships, should consider establishing ethical
guidelines or “codes of conduct” that address the ways
researchers must interact with the people and land that are
mindful and respectful of our culture and traditions. Too
many researchers enter communities without basic cultural
understanding, or historical knowledge of the people whom
they intend to study that results in bad experiences and poor
responses. Make it understood that research happens on your
terms.
2.
3.
Submitted by: Deanna M. Therriault, Housing Policy Analyst—ONWA Thunder Bay
Upcoming Events
ONWA’s Offices Closed—
5 pm Friday, December 16th, 2011 and will re-open
9 am Monday, January 2nd, 2012.
Summit to End Violence Against Aboriginal
Women V – February 28, 29 and
March 1, 2012 (Ottawa, ON)
Weekly ONWA Program Workshops—watch for new
workshops coming in January 2012!
1. Josephine Mandamin from the Ashinabek Women’s Water
Commission presents “Women’s Responsibility for Water”
2. One of the local Artisans displaying their jewellery and
other handcrafted items.
3. Several ONWA delegates take a tour of ONWA’s head office
located in Thunder Bay
15
The Ontario Native Women’s Association would like to acknowledge the financial support that we receive from our numerous Government partners. It is
through their support that we are able to maintain our core operations and continue to strive to meet our mandate and the needs of our members.
Staff
Title
ONWA Head Office
Betty Kennedy
Colleen Maloney
Lana Ray
Lou-Ann Lepage
Shelley Knott
Cora-Lee McGuire-Cyrette
Bonnie Wilson
Brendalyn Huntus
Brenda Polar
Carol Burridge
Cindy Cade
Deanna Therriault
Debbie Sault
Evelyn Esquega
Ingrid Green
Jamilee Wanakamik
Jessica Goodman
Judi Nelson Childs
Kahla Moses
Linda Blanchard
Lorene Rego
E-mail
Phone ext.
380 Ray Blvd ∙ Thunder Bay, ON ∙ P7B 4E6 ∙ Phone: (807) 623-3442, Toll Free: 1-800-667-0816 Fax: (807) 623-1104
Email: onwa@onwa-tbay.ca Website: www.onwa-tbay.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/ONWA7
Executive Director
Program Director
Policy & Research Director
Finance/Human Resources Director
Program Manager of Services
Program Manager of Services
Research & Policy Analyst
Corporate Board Relations Officer
Health Policy Analyst
Payroll/Benefit Administrator
Executive Assistant
Housing Policy Analyst
Mental Health Coordinator
AHBHC Service Coordinator
Aboriginal Skills & Employment Training Strategy Coordinator
AHBHC Family Home Visitor
AHBHC Family Home Visitor
Building Aboriginal Women’s Leadership Capacity Developer
Community Wellness Worker
Accounts Payable
Media & Communications Officer
Marla Wanakameg
Administrative Support Clerk
Michelle Perron
Family Support Worker/Cultural Coordinator
Rachel Periard
Community Wellness Worker
Rebecca Arthur
Robert Fenton
Tina Sainnawap
Position Currently Vacant
Position Currently Vacant
Verna Legarde
AHBHC Family Home Visitor
Aboriginal Diabetes Awareness and Prevention Worker
AHBHC Family Home Visitor
Aboriginal Justice Coordinator
Nihdawin Family Support Worker
Logo treatments
Problem Gambling Awareness Coordinator
ed@onwa-tbay.ca
ahbhc@onwa-tbay.ca
lray@onwa-tbay.ca
lalepage@onwa-tbay.ca
cdsw@onwa-tbay.ca
ccyrette@onwa-tbay.ca
bwilson@onwa-tbay.ca
cbro@onwa-tbay.ca
hpa@onwa-tbay.ca
pba@onwa-tbay.ca
ccade@onwa-tbay.ca
dtherriault@onwa-tbay.ca
dsault@onwa-tbay.ca
onwaahbhcsc@onwa-tbay.ca
asets@onwa-tbay.ca
ahbhcfhv3@onwa-tbay.ca
ahbhcfhv4@onwa-tbay.ca
jnchilds@onwa-tbay.ca
cwwtbay2@onwa-tbay.ca
payables@onwa-tbay.ca
communications@onwa-tbay.ca
lrego@onwa-tbay.ca
onwa@onwa-tbay.ca
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8542
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8586
8572
8588
8577
8574
8562
8565
8587
8584
8581
8580
8560
8568
807-623-3442
mperron@onwa-tbay.ca
nihdawin@onwa-tbay.ca
cwwtbay@onwa-tbay.ca
8589
8573
ahbhcfhv@onwa-tbay.ca
diabetes@onwa-tbay.ca
ahbhcfhv2@onwa-tbay.ca
8585
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gambling@onwa-tbay.ca
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ONWA Satellite OffiHorizontal
ces
Staff
Title
E-mail
Phone
Amy Smith
AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Hamilton
healthybabies2@onwa-tbay.ca
905-664-1114
Beverly Williamson
Community Wellness Worker—Kenora
bwilliamson@onwa-tbay.ca
807-468-3943
Brenda Chartrand
AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Wabigoon
chartrand2@onwa-bay.ca
807-223-8730
Candi Edwards
AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Sioux Lookout
ahbhc-siouxlookout@onwa-tbay.ca
807-737-7922 ext 5
Cindy Phillips
Community Health Outreach Worker—Sioux Lookout
healthoutreach@knet.ca
807-737-7922 ext 2
Debbie Kakagamic
Mental Health Worker—Sioux Lookout
dkakagamic@onwa-tbay.ca
807-737-7922 ext 6
Holly Maggrah
Community Wellness Worker—Dryden
cwwdryden@onwa-tbay.ca
807-223-8780
Position Currently Vacant
AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Ottawa
ahbhc_ottawa@onwa-tbay.ca
613-748-4775
Pam Tremblay
Health Outreach Worker-Geraldton/Greenstone
chow.geraldton@onwa-tbay.ca
807-854-2326
Sarah Brown
AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Napanee
ahbhcnapanee@onwa-tbay.ca
613-354-6318
Shannon Slipperjack
Community Health Outreach Worker—Thunder Bay
comhow@tbaytel.net
807-474-3542
AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Geraldton/Greenstone
Circular on dark background
ahbhc.geraldton@onwa-tbay.ca
807-854-0254
AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Hamilton
healthybabies@onwa-tbay.ca
905-664-1114
Stacey Taylor
Vivian Cubitt
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