ONWA 53rd Annual General Assembly (AGA) & Leadership Conference is taking place September 13-15, 2024, at the Best Western Plus Nor’wester Hotel & Conference Centre in Thunder Bay.
Highlights
Here are some highlights from our time there (click to jump to section):
Press Release
Friday, September 13, 2024
ONWA’s 53rd AGA & Leadership Conference “Collective Voices – Healing · Intention · Community”
Every year, ONWA Membership gathers from across Ontario to highlight and reflect on the accomplishments of the past year and plan for the coming year. The theme for this year’s AGA is “Collective Voices – Healing · Intention · Community”. The AGA & Leadership Conference provides a platform for membership to engage in discussions on Indigenous women’s current priorities, wise practices, and change opportunities.
Day 1: Annual General Assembly (AGA)
Friday, September 13, 2024
✨ We are prepped and ready for Day 1 of the 53rd Annual General Assembly!
Who’s excited for this weekend of learning, connecting, and celebrating Indigenous women’s leadership?
📝 We’re excited to welcome all delegates to #ONWA53AGA as we prepare for an amazing weekend. Make sure to grab your badges and program at the registration desk!
🌟 ONWA Welcomes OMSSA into the Circle! 🌟
Today marks a historic moment as Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO of ONWA, and Doug Ball, Executive Director of OMSSA, come together to sign a groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). 🤝
This first-of-its-kind agreement between OMSSA and an Indigenous Women's Organization signifies a strong commitment to collaboration and advancing the well-being of Indigenous women across Ontario.
Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive future! 🌿✨
🍽️ Lunch is served! Delegates are enjoying a meal together before kicking off the Regional Caucus sessions this afternoon.
![“You are medicine. When you shine, everyone benefits. […] The magic we do as Indigenous women, we create change through community.” – Joan Riggs](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4eaa9c_dd1a8a90159049fc858a7adf9ee9d9e1~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4eaa9c_dd1a8a90159049fc858a7adf9ee9d9e1~mv2.png)
💼 Joan Riggs is starting off Day 1 of the #ONWA53AGA with powerful remarks on the importance of Indigenous women's community and collective leadership. Let’s get ready for an impactful weekend together! #CollectiveVoices
💼 ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette is opening Day 1 of the #ONWA53AGA with powerful remarks about the type of community and collective leadership we are aspiring to build together. The start of an impactful weekend together!
What happens when we as women reclaim our voice and our role in community? Cora was moved by this silent video created by Mary Simon.
💬 ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette shared her vision in the presentation 'Holding Community Together,' setting the tone for the rest of the conference.
What does “holding community together mean to you”?
Here are some of the highlights from the collective art project ONWA membership undertook:
Supporting, teaching, and uplifting one another!
Love, belonging, and safety!
Connection and relationships. Supporting the strengths of one another.
Togetherness, strength, and connection. Identity rooted in culture, teachings and gifts from generations before for generations to come.
Embracing the life we have right now and honouring and respecting the lives of those we have lost, as the Movie always moved my heart, Horton hears a Who, we are all people no matter how small, and we as Indigenous women have grown to make our voices heard and we are the foundation of our communities and we all need to acknowledge that and keep our fires lit and continue to do amazing work that we are always improving on, Love everyone!!
🤝 Our members are engaged in meaningful discussions during today’s regional caucus sessions. Together, we’re identifying key priorities and solutions for the future.
Today’s caucus session included a presentation on the successes, challenges, and solutions over the past five years. It’s inspiring to see how much progress has been made in our collective journey. 📈
🍽️ Dinner is served! Delegates are winding down after a productive day of regional caucuses and looking forward to the business meeting tonight.
![“I am honoured to see so much power in all these beautiful women.[...] Looking ahead, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing ONWA will continue to strive for a better future for our Indigenous women and the generations to come.” – Debra Vermette, President, ONWA](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4eaa9c_57962ff5d4e348ca9cf3d5e078d6a382~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4eaa9c_57962ff5d4e348ca9cf3d5e078d6a382~mv2.png)
💬 ONWA President Debra Vermette welcomed attendees with words of strength and unity, reminding us of the importance of Indigenous women’s leadership in our communities.
ONWA President Debra Vermette has officially called the 53rd Annual General Assembly to order! Let the business of the assembly begin.
💼 Minister Rickford shared his thoughts on Indigenous women’s leadership and the importance of reconciliation and development for future generations.
“I wanted to come here and let the Ontario Native Women’s Association know loud and clear that nothing about First Nations economic reconciliation […] will be done unless it is viewed through the lens of women power, of native women power. […] Our message is clear. We will be there to support and work with you every step of the way. […] Your dedication continues to help drive meaningful outcomes for Indigenous women and families fostering a stronger, brighter future for the next generation. So, when I see the sign that walking in says ‘addressing women’s issues’, one day I hope to see a sign that say ‘addressing women’s opportunities’. Wouldn’t that be a great place to be.” – Minister Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs and First Nations Economic Reconciliation & Minister of Northern Development
"How do we keep raising the bar, we listen to you and your feedback. We really do hope that you see that our power is within our strength, and our strength is in our solidarity." - Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO, ONWA
💡 We concluded the welcoming remarks with an inspiring call to action, reminding us that we all play a role in creating safe and thriving communities.
📊 ONWA President Debra Vermette delivered her report on the achievements over the past year and the progress being made on the strategic picture.
💼 ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette provided her CEO Report, sharing updates on ONWA’s initiatives and reinforcing the commitment to empowering and supporting Indigenous women.
Read the 2023-24 Annual Report here:
🌿 ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette took a moment to honour our leaders and board members for their dedication and commitment to our mission. Wishing comfort, love, and safety as we wrapped them in a blanket of love, to keep them warm and their fires burning.
📊 The results of the 2024 elections were announced today, confirming the new leadership that will guide ONWA’s efforts in the coming year. Congratulations to all!
🎉 What a fantastic first day at #ONWA53AGA! From inspiring speeches to engaging workshops, today was a testament to our collective strength and vision.
Day 2: Leadership Conference
Saturday, September 14, 2024
🌅 The ONWA Leadership Conference is about to begin! We’ve got a day packed with meaningful conversations, workshops, and community building. Stay tuned!
🙏 We started today with a powerful Sunrise Ceremony, connecting to the land and each other. It’s a beautiful reminder of our shared responsibility to lead with intention and healing.
🎤 Day 2 of #ONWALeadershipConference has officially begun! We’re excited for a day of empowering sessions, cultural teachings, and leadership discussions. Follow along as we share today’s highlights
💬 Chief Michele Solomon opened Day 2 with heartfelt remarks, reminding us of the strength of Indigenous women’s leadership.
💬 Regional Chief Mel Hardy, Northern Region, Anishinabek Nation, opened Day 2 with remarks about the strength of Indigenous women’s leadership and the importance of our work.
![“The calling of women of my generation and future generations is to be visible, to be heard and seen. [...] When women participate they bring different perspectives and approaches to issues. This builds stronger communities.” – Jody Wilson-Raybould, Former Independent MP](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4eaa9c_854b05cfd79f493b90bdcae8e6de3cb5~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4eaa9c_854b05cfd79f493b90bdcae8e6de3cb5~mv2.png)
💡 Powerful words from Jody Wilson-Raybould opening this morning’s leadership panel.
🌟 We’re kicking off our first session of the day with an inspiring leadership panel! Our esteemed panelists will share their wisdom on leadership, resilience, and community.
“You don’t need a title to be a leader. Everyone in this room is a leader. Everyone is an inspiration to someone that you might not even know.” – Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige
“Remember to be always proud of who you are. No matter what you do in your life, remember your teachings because they will guide you through your path in life. […] Know that your voice matters, and your voice is needed.” – Jody Wilson-Raybould, Former Independent MP
“Sometimes the challenge is that we can’t move forward because of these crises. […] The challenge is that we need to be strong. Even when faced with trouble, we need to keep moving forward.” – MPP Sol Mamakwa
“Let’s work together. You are amazing. […] As women, what we need to do more, is uplift – our mothers, our sisters, our grandmothers.” – Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige
🌟 We were honoured for the shared wisdom gifted during the Lessons for the Leadership Journey Ahead panel today at ONWA's Leadership Conference! A huge thank you to Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige, MPP Sol Mamakwa, and Jody Wilson-Raybould, Former Independent MP for joining us today.
![“We have to unlearn the stories that have been told about Indigenous women, so that we can learn the truth about who we are. […] Change always starts with you breaking the silence and speaking your truth.” – Joan Riggs](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4eaa9c_9a6c407d8f0b46f5867f6d80ae17e330~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4eaa9c_9a6c407d8f0b46f5867f6d80ae17e330~mv2.png)
💼 Joan Riggs is shared powerful remarks on the importance of Indigenous women's stories and truth.
🎨 Our paddle painting activity this morning was a creative and meaningful way for attendees to reflect on Indigenous women’s key priorities.
What is you intent or your vision for your community?
We asked membership and community to paint their answers on their paddles. Here are some of the highlights of what they expressed:
Land and culture is the beginning of what will restore our community.
We are at the center of all the circles that help to restore us.
I want more healing for all our communities, and to connect to our culture. I want to continue to pass down all the lessons, and important teachings from my grandmother that helped make me me. I want this paddle to represent the learning that need to be shared to all the people who may not even know they are waiting to receive that teaching.
This otter trail represents Creation Story. To reminder us always that there are teachers out there. That is why we always start with culture, for that spiritual guidance.
The plants and garden is to reminder us that everything we need is available us to us in our back yards.
We start with a blank paddle, then you see the hands that represent the help we give our community. To reach out, and to reach back. We are helpers. We will be there for you.
I will survive. I will ensure that my children and grandchildren survive; that they know where they come from.
🍽️ Lunchtime at #ONWALeadershipConference! Today, attendees are fueling up for an afternoon of impactful discussions.
🔧 Next up: Our Community Change Workshops, where participants will dive into hands-on sessions about leadership, healing, and making actionable change.
🙏 In our 'Honouring Women’s Sacredness: Ending Violence Against Indigenous Women' workshop, participants are learning about healing and protection through cultural teachings.
🌍 Our afternoon workshop, 'Redefining Healing and Wellness: Visioning a Shared Experience' had attendees explore approaches to wellness, shared personal stories, and envisioned new pathways to collective well-being.
🌟 Youth leaders are stepping up in the 'Youth Leading Change: Future Ogimaa Kwe Storying' workshop. It’s inspiring to see the passion and commitment of our young attendees!
🌍 Our afternoon workshop, 'Reconnecting with Mother Earth: Activating Influential Change,' had attendees engaging in discussions about sustainable practices and Indigenous women’s leadership.
🪙 The "Indian Auction" is an annual fundraiser started by the late Dorothy Wynne! We’ve got some amazing items up for grabs, with all proceeds supporting ONWA’s Annual Awards. Chi miigwetch to everyone who participated—your contributions will go a long way in supporting ONWA’s mission.
Day 2: Annual Recognition Awards Gala
Saturday, September 14, 2024
We were pleased to start this wonderful night with the announcement of ONWA's new Board of Director's President Krystal Brant and Vice-President Paula Whitlow! We look forwards to continuing to work together towards our Strategic Goal and to honour and celebrate the safety and healing of Indigenous women and girls as they take up their leadership roles.
“I will keep this short and sweet. I’m really honoured that you trust me with this responsibility.” – Krystal Brant, President, ONWA
At ONWA, we celebrate and honour the safety and healing of Indigenous women and girls as they take up their leadership roles in family, and the greater community.
We are honoured to shared the ONWA Year in Review 2023-24 video and share some of the awesome work ONWA has achieved. Watch now!
We were blessed with the teachings of the Wampum belt by Kahlunyunti - Martin Powless B.A., LLB., Thayune, Onyota a:ka and Deshkan Zii Bi Indigenous Women’s Association. They bestowed the responsibility and gift of a Wampum belt to Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA CEO, and Krystal Brant, ONWA President. It is an enormous honour.
Each year, ONWA recognizes women whose work and contributions to the Indigenous community have made an impact upon the quality of life of Indigenous women and their families. Award recipients are nominated by their peers and are based on the listed criteria. Awards were presented during the Gala Dinner at ONWA's 53rd Annual General Assembly (AGA) and Leadership Conference.
Congratulations to the recipients of the...
Alice Souliere Bursary Award: Esther Lachinette Diabo
Indigenous Women's Movement Award: Robyn Haché
Dorothy Wynne Achievement Award: Janice Lewis-Deeley
Indigenous Woman of the Year: Carla Devlin
Day 3: Cultural Teaching & Activity
Sunday, September 15, 2024
🌅 It’s the final day of the 53rd Annual General Assembly & Leadership Conference! We’re looking forward to a day filled with cultural teachings and community reflections. Let’s close this weekend on a high note!
🙏 Our Sunrise Ceremony has concluded, bringing peace and connection as we start the day together. Thank you to all who joined in this sacred gathering.
![“Our life is ceremony and our body is ceremony. [...] We are being blessed with such a unique, sacred gift. You are a sacred gift.” – Grandmother Renee Thomas-Hill](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/4eaa9c_0f6fcc1cd05343958b8c387ff9e09776~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_60,h_60,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,blur_2,enc_auto/4eaa9c_0f6fcc1cd05343958b8c387ff9e09776~mv2.png)
🌟 Today's session of the #ONWALeadershipConference has officially begun! We began with beautiful opening words from Grandmother Renee Thomas-Hill this morning. We’re reflecting on our collective strength as we move through today’s cultural teachings and activities.
🌾 Our morning begins with cultural teachings from Cora McGuire-Cyrette (CEO ONWA), Audrey Deroy, & George Price, focusing on healing, leadership, and honouring women’s sacred roles. These teachings remind us of our deep connection to the land and each other.
“I love taking people out on the land. When I do, they always say ‘I have never done this before’. And I always tell them ‘Yes, you have. Your grandmothers have done this, your grandfathers have done this. You are connecting. You are remembering’.” – Audrey Deroy, Cultural Program Manager, ONWA
“I want to thank on also for believing in me that I've done a lot of work for them, and I respect that when they ask me to do something, it gets done.” – George Price
“I just really want to acknowledge every person who was here, who participated over the last three days. […] Many people have come up to me to say that this is their first time being here, and how much they feel appreciated and that they belong in this space. That's only happens when you have everybody in the space building a safe space. It happened because we as women came together and we let our guards down, and we honored our spirit and our being to be in this space in a sacred way.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), ONWA
🛶 We are honoured to gift canoes to our members as part of today’s teachings. Each canoe symbolizes the journey of leadership and healing that we carry forward.
We honour ONWA membership who shape our direction and helps us better serve our shared goals. We honour the trees – the black ash, the cedar, and the birch – that have gone into making these canoes.
🌊 We are coming together and working side by side to create something truly special at the #ONWALeadershipConference! Guided by the amazing George Price, membership is learning about and contributing to making an ONWA canoe; every stitch is a reminder of the connections we build as we work together towards a collective goal.
“This scent of birch just brings me home. [... Birch] gives us such gifts, and one of them is travel.” – Audrey Deroy, Cultural Program Manager, ONWA
🌿Wishing everyone paddling away home safe travels as this impactful weekend comes to a close. These last few days left us with feelings of hope for what we are going to accomplish throughout the next year. Chi miigwetch to all who were part of this unforgettable weekend!
Miigwetch / Kinahnaskomihtin / Nakurmīk / Marsee / Niá:wen / Merci / Thank you to the wonderful staff at the Best Western Plus Nor’wester Hotel & Conference Centre, Ingaged Creative Productions, and all the ONWA employees for all their wonderful support, and to the ONWA Membership that helped make this wonderful conference happen.