The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is striving to enhance the representation and leadership of Inuit women as the Inuit population in Ontario experiences growth. Over the past five years, there has been an approximately 11.7% increase in the Inuit population in Ontario, with a rise from 3,860 to 4,310 individuals, according to Statistics Canada.
ONWA’s CEO, Cora McGuire-Cyrette, highlighted the organization’s ongoing commitment to empowering all Indigenous women. McGuire-Cyrette mentioned the establishment of an Inuit Women’s Council by ONWA for the first time, aiming to provide a platform for Inuit women to actively engage in shaping programs and policies that impact their lives.
The organization has been collaborating with Inuit leaders and organizations to incorporate cultural teachings into its initiatives. McGuire-Cyrette emphasized the significance of inclusivity, community connection, and fostering a sense of belonging among Indigenous women, particularly those facing isolation when residing outside their territories.
Stephanie Mikki Adams, an Inuk leader and the newest board member and secretary at ONWA from Rankin Inlet, Nunavut, emphasized the necessity of genuine inclusion. Adams stressed the importance of fully representing Inuit women to ensure the diversity of Indigenous women across Ontario is reflected, along with upholding the values of inclusivity and cultural authenticity within ONWA.
Adams pointed out the historical underrepresentation of Inuit voices within many Indigenous organizations, underscoring the unique challenges faced by Inuit women related to migration, language preservation, health discrepancies, and systemic marginalization. Adams advocated for meaningful inclusion beyond mere tokenism, emphasizing the essential need for Inuit women to have the space, resources, and decision-making authority to influence programs, policies, and advocacy efforts that directly affect their lives.