Thunder Bay, ON – This National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) recognizes the importance of amplifying community knowledge of human trafficking as one of the fundamental steps that can be taken to combat it. ONWA acknowledges that Survivors are the experts in their own lives and have gifted ONWA with teachings and knowledge that inform our work in human trafficking.
ONWA is incredibly proud of the recent appointment of Jennifer Richardson, ONWA Senior Director of Strategy and Communications, as Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking. A Survivor herself, Jennifer served as the first Director of Ontario's Anti-Human Trafficking Coordination Office and brings over 24 years of experience to this national role. Her expanded mandate includes working with Indigenous partners to implement Calls for Justice related to human trafficking from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Her in-depth knowledge will greatly inform and shape initiatives aimed at combatting human trafficking both in Ontario and across Canada. She has proven to be a passionate ally to Survivors, and her leadership will continue to strengthen efforts for systemic change.
“Human trafficking thrives in silence and ignorance. Change begins with breaking that silence, educating ourselves, and uplifting the voices of Indigenous Survivors. Their stories are often overlooked, yet Indigenous women’s voices and solutions are vital in the fight to end human trafficking." – Jennifer Richardson, ONWA Senior Director of Strategy and Communications, Canada’s Chief Advisor to Combat Human Trafficking
Knowledge is the first step towards prevention, early intervention, and community safety. It is the foundation for lasting change. When people understand the signs of trafficking, tactics used, and relevant information, they are better equipped to protect themselves and others. Knowledge empowers Survivors, strengthens support networks, and disrupts the systems that allow trafficking to persist. We know from experience that traffickers thrive in areas that lack awareness.
ONWA continues to lead anti-human trafficking efforts delivering expertise in trauma-informed training and awareness-building initiatives. ONWA utilizes Indigenous trauma-informed care to support Survivors’ unique needs. We urge communities and sectors across the province to access our training opportunities.
“The Building Your Bundle: Anti-Human Trafficking workshop, facilitated by [ONWA], was a transformative experience for our organization. […] The workshop highlighted the long-standing, disproportionate effects of human trafficking on Indigenous women, children, and Two-Spirited individuals.” – Testimonial from Emily King, Courage for Change, Native Women’s Centre
Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people have the inherent right to live in safety - free from the threat, fear, or experience of exploitation and violence. Every barrier to safety, support, and healing must be removed to support Survivors and their journeys.
Visit ONWA’s Human Trafficking resources webpage to learn more: https://www.onwa.ca/learning-resources-ht
Read ONWA’s Journey to Safe Spaces Report: https://onwa.ca/reports/journey-to-safe-spaces
For more information and media inquiries, contact:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca
For training inquiries, contact:
Justine Barone, Community Development Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: jbarone@onwa.ca
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