Winter 2011 - Ontario Native Womens Association
Transcription
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. Hope th and in, Tru from across theeness a P f o Wordsilation of poetrying public awarn is p A com of Ontario ra riginal Wome o ce provin ce Against Ab n le of Vio 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: [email protected] or Phone: (807) 623-3442 Toll Free: 1-800-667-0816 R TA NA TIVE I O SO C IAT ON ION 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. AS R TA NA TIVE I O SO C IAT ON ION ’S WOMEN ’ WOMEN SA S ation: ct Inform iation Conta n’s Assoc Wome Native y Blvd 4E6 Ontario 380 Ra P7B y, ON Ba r Thunde 3-3442 62 7) (80 816 Phone: 00-667-0 e: 1-8 104 Toll Fre 7) 623-1 Fax: (80 y.ca nwa-tba a wa@o bay.c on WA7 E-mail: www.onwa-t m/ON te: Websi w.facebook.co . ook: ww resale eb for Fac is not ource This res 2010 socia omen’s As Native W Ontario tion Winter 2011 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 [email protected]. · 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 [email protected]. 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, [email protected]. 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 [email protected]. 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: [email protected] 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 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 8564 8561 8542 8566 8569 8543 8583 8575 8586 8572 8588 8577 8574 8562 8565 8587 8584 8581 8580 8560 8568 807-623-3442 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 8589 8573 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 8585 8579 8563 8541 8576 8567 [email protected] on light background ONWA Satellite OffiHorizontal ces Staff Title E-mail Phone Amy Smith AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Hamilton [email protected] 905-664-1114 Beverly Williamson Community Wellness Worker—Kenora [email protected] 807-468-3943 Brenda Chartrand AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Wabigoon [email protected] 807-223-8730 Candi Edwards AHBHC Family Home Visitor—Sioux Lookout [email protected] 807-737-7922 ext 5 Cindy Phillips Community Health Outreach Worker—Sioux Lookout [email protected] 807-737-7922 ext 2 Debbie Kakagamic Mental Health Worker—Sioux Lookout [email protected] 807-737-7922 ext 6 Holly Maggrah Community Wellness Worker—Dryden [email protected] 807-223-8780 Position Currently Vacant AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Ottawa [email protected] 613-748-4775 Pam Tremblay Health Outreach Worker-Geraldton/Greenstone [email protected] 807-854-2326 Sarah Brown AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Napanee [email protected] 613-354-6318 Shannon Slipperjack Community Health Outreach Worker—Thunder Bay [email protected] 807-474-3542 AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Geraldton/Greenstone Circular on dark background [email protected] 807-854-0254 AHBHC Family Home Visitor —Hamilton [email protected] 905-664-1114 Stacey Taylor Vivian Cubitt Horizontal on dark background Circular on light background