Native Women s Association of Canada Association des femmes autochtones du Canada

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2 About NWAC The Native Women s Association of Canada (NWAC) works to advance the well-being of Aboriginal women and girls, as well as their families and communities through activism, policy analysis and advocacy. Aboriginal women continue to experience discrimination on multiple grounds and in various complex forms and from various sources, including from individuals, businesses, and governments. NWAC was incorporated in 1974 and is one of the five officially recognized National Aboriginal Organizations (NAOs) whose purpose is to represent and speak, at the national level, on behalf of Aboriginal women in Canada. The NWAC is led by an elected national president whose term is three years. The president is the official spokesperson for NWAC and has the authority to act on behalf of the Board of Directors. The NWAC is governed by a Board of Directors that includes the President of NWAC, the President or designate of each of the Provincial/ Territorial Member Associations (PTMAs) as well as four Elders and four youth to represent the four directions. The head office of NWAC is located in Akwesasne with a satellite office established in Ottawa, Ontario. There are 25 full-time persons on staff that is comprised of an Executive Director and five Senior Directors. Files being addressed by NWAC include: education, employment and labour, environment, health, human rights and international affairs and violence with a special focus on missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls. Contact NWAC Head Office: 155 International Road, Unit 4 Akwesasne ON K6H 5R7 Satellite Office: 1 Nicholas Street, 9th Floor Ottawa ON K1N 7B7 Tel: Toll-free: Fax: Website:

3 TABLE OF CONTENTS Inside this issue: President s Message 2 Executive Director s Message 3 Health 4 Understanding from Within: a Research Project on Neurological Conditions 4 International Affairs and Human Rights 8 United Nations Commission on the Status of Women 8 Inter-American Commission on Human Rights 8 Universal Periodic Review (UPR) 9 NWAC Youth Board Expand their Capacity at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UN PFII) 11 Expert Mechanism on the Rights of indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) 11 Aboriginal Voting in Canada 13 Report on Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Aboriginal Women and Girls 14 Labour Market Development 15 Gathering Together in One Place: Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth 15 NWAC Financial Literacy Project 16 Aboriginal Women s Business Entrepreneurship Network (AWBEN) 18 A Mentorship Culture for Aboriginal Women Entrepreneurs 19 Violence Prevention and Safety 20 NWAC Digital Life Stories 20 NWAC Co-host of the 2013 Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival and International Competition Pow Wow 21 Announcement of the 8th Annual Sisters In Spirit Vigils 23 Sisters in Spirit (SIS) Registration 25

4 Kuei Kuei! FROM THE PRESIDENT Michèle Audette We are already in our second issue of the newsletter from the Native Women's Association of Canada and so many activities have taken place! You will see how our team is committed and works with passion in the various priority issues of the organization. This newsletter is a tool that allows us to share with you the highlights and bring us closer to our members, partners, and friends. Here I am in my first year at NWAC. I must confess that I savour every moment since my arrival! I have met wonderful people, people who have helped me to grow. I can honestly say that there is an incredible force working with us for a better life for our people all across Canada. We participated in Idle No More events, we have supported from beginning to end the hunger strike of Chief Theresa Spence. We have received 13 other reported cases of missing and murdered women over the last year from all of our sources. We have marked an important moment in the sad and terrible story of sisters stolen from our communities when Ministers and Premiers responsible for Aboriginal Affairs all came together and agreed to support NWAC in our demands to the federal government for a National Public Inquiry to look into this tragedy. We held the first meeting of Aboriginal Women in Business to build a dream that I cherished for a long time, a national network of women entrepreneurs. We need to create options for women from disadvantaged backgrounds so that they can climb out of economic dependency and violence. Then we have, on several international forums, recalled the realities of Aboriginal women and their families, to make the situation known across the globe. Whenever we had the chance, we met with and will continue to meet with Special Rapporteurs when visiting Canada so that they can report on what our women face. I thank all the people, all the volunteers, members of the Board of NWAC, the team, and our partners, who have guided me for this first year. Much remains to be done and I will continue to put all my love for you into action to set up a National Action Plan for socioeconomic development and security for Indigenous women. I will continue to push forward so that civil society, the philanthropic sector, the business world, Aboriginal, Provincial and Territorial governments, and Canada will agree to work with NWAC to improve the lives of Aboriginal women and their families. Your President 2

5 FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Kwey, Hello, Bonjour: Claudette Dumont-Smith I am pleased to once again share with you some of the successes and challenges that we, as Aboriginal women and as an Aboriginal women s organization, have experienced over the past several months. After constant lobbying efforts that went on for several years, NWAC, in concert with other supporting groups, finally convinced the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and the Inter American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR) to come to Canada to look into the deplorable treatment of Aboriginal women and girls in this country. NWAC is certain that once the representatives of these international entities examine the conditions of Aboriginal women and girls, they will pressure and convince Canada that the status quo is unacceptable and that good changes need to occur. NWAC is convinced that their visit and their findings and recommendations will provide a valued, international voice and attention to current conditions that will help move things forward, and NWAC will be there to support them in whatever way it can. Needless to say, NWAC is looking forward to both these visits and will call upon their Provincial/Territorial Member Associations (PTMAs) to also lend a hand to ensure that the voices of our women are heard from across the country. NWAC should be proud of this achievement! As is the situation with all other national and regional Aboriginal organizations, NWAC is steadily undergoing budgetary cuts from the Federal Government. Last year, NWAC s health budget was cut 100% and in this fiscal year all project budgets have been decreased by 30%. In addition to these major reductions, NWAC has been informed to expect another 10% cut in its core funding in the next fiscal year, 2014/15. Needless to say, NWAC will have to be creative in finding ways to carry out the necessary and meaningful work it has been doing for the past 39 years. NWAC is currently establishing a charitable arm that will not only help facilitate the accepting of donations but it will also allow NWAC to pursue funding from foundations and other sources that were previously closed to the association. This will give NWAC more flexibility and options for pursuing projects that support our goals of advocacy and promoting rights for Aboriginal women. Funding has always been a challenge for NWAC, but we remain vigilant in finding alternate paths to achieve our mandate. As you will note in reading this newsletter, NWAC continues to forge ahead in many areas to improve the lives of Aboriginal women and is successful in influencing public policy and legislation this is no small feat! NWAC, including former and current leaders and staff, are to be commended for their strong spirit, commitment, and dedication towards achieving equality for Aboriginal women in Canada. As is so well-stated in the following quote, to achieve true equality, other conditions must be met: Gender equality is more than a goal in itself. It is a precondition for meeting the challenge of reducing poverty, promoting sustainable development and building good governance. Kofi Annan. Undoubtedly, NWAC s work is far from over! Have a nice summer all! 3

6 HEALTH Understanding from Within: a Research Project on Neurological Conditions After collecting a vast amount of extremely rich data, NWAC s three-year research project entitled Understanding from Within: Developing community driven and culturallyrelevant models for understanding and responding to neurological conditions among Aboriginal peoples (UFW) wrapped up at the end of March And, not unlike a lot of new research, the findings illustrated how little we knew about the scope of impacts experienced by families, caregivers, and communities. The lack of readily available information, combined with the complexities of these conditions, magnifies the stigma that so often surrounds these diseases. Unfortunately for many Aboriginal women, the stigma is compounded by discrimination and racism they experienced in the health care and other systems (such as the education and justice systems). In 2010 NWAC was successful in obtaining funding through the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) to undertake research to better understand how Aboriginal peoples conceptualize neurological conditions and the impacts on their families and communities, and the resources and supports needed to provide culturally safe and appropriate care. PHAC funded thirteen research projects, each falling into one of five categories: scope, impacts, risk factors, health services, and multiple focal points. The UFW project was the only one that sought to examine neurological conditions through the lens of Aboriginal realities, culture, and worldviews. Two methods were used to collect research data and information: in-depth interviews and research circles (focus groups). A total of 80 people participated in the interviews, some living on a reserve, some off. A total of 69 women and 11 men were interviewed. In-depth interviews were undertaken with key informants (22), with Aboriginal peoples living with a neurological condition (18), and with Aboriginal peoples caring for someone with a neurological condition (40). Major themes and sub themes emerged in the research, along with a series of recommendations intended to improve relations between the health care system and Aboriginal peoples, and intended to promote the importance of Aboriginal control of health care services. For the full research report see Impacts The range of impacts that emerged was extensive. Research participants spoke about how they were impacted personally (as someone with a condition) and collectively (through family and community experiences), and told stories about how the impacts of neurological conditions are interconnected: The spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental impacts interviewees spoke about were profound. Spiritual Impacts Some participants described how, over time, they lost touch with their culture and traditions, and when they were diagnosed with a neurological condition, they felt the need to draw upon their spirituality in order to better cope with their condition. Participants who did draw upon traditional healing practices as a source of support talked about finding solace in culture and traditions. 4

7 Mental Impacts Neurological conditions impact mental capacity and changed how people managed their day-to-day lives. Some research participants talked about the impacts medication had on their mental capacity. Both caregivers and those with a condition spoke about the need for more information related to their condition and what they should expect. Emotional Impacts Being diagnosed with a neurological condition or caring for someone with a neurological condition can be an overwhelmingly emotional experience. It can be both emotionally draining and fulfilling. Many Aboriginal women we spoke to said that the emotional impacts were the most debilitating. Physical Impacts Some of the women interviewed who suffered pain as a result of a neurological condition spoke of how the pain impacted every part of their lives, particularly in terms of not being able to get enough sleep and simply feeling physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually exhausted. Family and Community Impacts Living with a neurological condition or caring for someone with a neurological condition affects and connects everyone around that person. Family can contribute significantly to the recovery and healing process. Several interviewees spoke about how their neurological condition negatively impacted their relationship with family, and attributed this to a lack of information and awareness about neurological conditions generally. Life Impacts Both caregivers and those living with a condition spoke about how the condition interfered with their work life. Some talked about having to relocate their families because it was cheaper than renovating their homes. People talked about how doctor s appointments took them away from their home, sometimes for extended periods of time; and they talked about the time and expense involved with each medical appointment. Risk Factors When examining risk factors among the Aboriginal population, prevalence rates appear to be higher than the general Canadian population. Research participants spoke about genetic risk factors (e.g. epilepsy and seizures) and lifestyle (unhealthy diet, alcohol and drug use, and smoking), and spoke about having to deal with multiple issues and conditions. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and other injuries were most commonly reported as conditions people had, in addition to their neurological condition. Protective Factors Some research participants talked about how they tapped into an internal strength in order to cope with their condition, yet others talked about how they lacked these coping skills. Sometimes experiencing difficult circumstances builds confidence and resiliency; one participant relayed a story of how her condition allowed her to overcome her fear of public speaking. Environment For those living in areas with severe environmental contamination, traditional practices such as fishing and hunting became risk factors for certain neurological conditions. 5

8 Conclusion In addition to the research findings, NWAC produced a series of community resources in poster format. Four posters were developed: One on dementia, one on traumatic brain injury, one on epilepsy, and one that promotes the benefits of Aboriginal patient advocates (all posters can be found on the NWAC website). The posters employ a new technology called augmented reality, or AR. The technology allows digital information to be superimposed, or augmented, onto a live view of the physical, real-world environment, viewable with a special app. This basically means that when viewed through a device (such as an iphone, ipad, or Android) running the Layar app, these one-dimensional posters come alive in video format. Layar is available for free on the istore, the Android Market Place, and online. NWAC s advisory committee recommended that the community resources be accessible in terms of the language and messaging, and target young Aboriginal people. The research team worked with a number of partners to create these unique resources and believes they each tell a story that represents the scope of impacts neurological conditions have on our communities. Chi meegwetch. 6

9 Please view this video through the Layar app for the full effect. 7

10 INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS AND HUMAN RIGHTS United Nations Commission on the Status of Women March New York City, New York A global policy-making body, the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is a functional commission of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), dedicated exclusively to the promotion of gender equality and the advancement of women. Every year, representatives of Member States gather at the United Nations Headquarters in New York to evaluate progress on gender equality, identify challenges, set global standards and formulate concrete policies to promote gender equality and advancement of women worldwide. Representatives from Member States, UN entities, and NGOs in consultative status with the Economic and Social Council, like NWAC, attended the 57th session. The session included a high-level round table, interactive dialogues and panels, and parallel events and had key areas of focus: Elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls; the equal sharing of responsibilities between women and men, including care-giving in the context of HIV/AIDS; key gender equality issues to be reflected in the post-2015 development framework. The Commission on the Status of Women adopted agreed conclusions (a term used to describe statements agreed upon by all states at the end of the conference) on the elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls. (Left-Right, Niki Ashton MP-NDP Churchill, Joyce Bateman, MP-Conservative Winnipeg South Centre; Miche le Audette, NWAC President ; Claudette Dumont-Smith, NWAC ED; Judy Sgro, MP-Liberal York West; Senator Adeline Webber; and Jean Crowder MP-NDP Nanaimo- Cowichan) Inter-American Commission on Human Rights March Washington, District of Columbia, USA The NWAC President, Executive Director, and Evidence to Action Director continue to work collaboratively with IAHR to maintain an active role and presence in relation to the high levels of violence experienced by Aboriginal women and girls, and, in particular, by addressing the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls as part of implementing Indigenous women s right to safety and well-being. Audiences include communities, stu- 8

11 dents, academia, police, service providers, policy and decision makers, key stakeholders, partners, government and government committees, and international bodies, such as with the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP). In March 2013, NWAC and the Canadian Feminist Alliance for International Action appeared for the 2nd time before Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR). They called upon the Government of Canada to initiate a national inquiry into the disappearances and murders of Aboriginal women and girls in Canada and to ensure the full participation of Aboriginal women and Aboriginal organizations within national and provincial inquiries. - Universal Period Review April Geneva, Switzerland What is the Universal Periodic Review (UPR)? Created in 2006, alongside the Human Rights Council (HRC), the United Nations Periodic Review (UPR) is a process whereby Member States of the UN review a State s human rights record. Taking place every four years in Geneva and under the support of HRC, the UPR is a state-driven mechanism aimed at improving the social, cultural, economic, political, and civil human rights in every country. During the UPR process, civil society plays an important role by providing submissions on the current status of human rights in their respective country, and thus raising awareness to other Member States of possible recommendations to enhance human rights protection. Civil society in this case usually refers to non-profits and advocacy organizations from the country that monitor and work in relevant areas, such as human rights. There are three stages that comprise the UPR process: The human rights situation of the State under Review (SuR) is analyzed by Member States who can make comments and recommendations, and pose questions to the SuR. NGOs and other stakeholders can be present at the review but cannot intervene at that time; The State under review has the ability to comment on the final report as well as accept or reject the recommendations. The State under Review, Member States, NGOs and other stakeholders have a chance to make comments on the final report before it is adopted at the Human Rights Council plenary session; The State under review is obligated to implement the UPR recommendations. The first UPR cycle reviewed all Member States. The second UPR expects all States under review to present what they have done or not done to implement the recommendations. If the State fails to implement change and is uncooperative in the process, the HRC decides what measures will be taken. On February 3, 2009 Canada had its first UPR. Canada responded to the UPR report in June, 2009, indicating what recommendations they will implement. Though Canada accepted recommendations by the UPR in 2009 to improve equality rights of Aboriginal Peoples, Canada has failed to take the necessary steps needed to address the fundamental inequalities between Aboriginal Peoples and non-aboriginal Peoples. In addition, though Canada endorsed the UN Declaration of Indigenous Rights in November 2010, they continue to devalue Abo- 9

12 riginal Peoples collective rights as human rights and often refer to it as an aspirational document. NWAC s Submission to UPR On October 9 th, 2012, The Native Women s Association of Canada submitted their Shadow Report to the Human Rights Council as part of the second Universal Periodic Review. Within the report NWAC highlighted many issues regarding Canada s fulfillment of its human rights obligations. In addition, NWAC and their partners Quakers-Society of Friends, Justice for Girls and the Feminist Alliance for International Action met with countries to help inform their comments while reviewing Canada. These meetings clearly had an effect as most countries criticized Canada on the situation of Aboriginal women and girls in Canada as a problem they need to address. Throughout the report NWAC highlighted the following concerns: Violence against Aboriginal Women in Canada; the First Nations Child Welfare System in Canada; Jordan s Principle: Federal-Provincial Funding Jurisdictional Disputes; First Nations Education; the Indian Act and ongoing Gender Discrimination; particularly as it pertains to Unstated, Unrecognized and Unknown Paternity Registration Issues under the Indian Act; Matrimonial Rights - Personal and Property Rights; Safe Streets and Communities Act and the lack of implementation funding and supports; and the ongoing discrimination, insecurity and disregard for Human Rights and overall consultation with Aboriginal Peoples while implementing laws within Canada that affect them. All of these issues must be addressed to enhance equality and respect as fundamental human rights. Additionally, NWAC; Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee); First Nations Summit; Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations; Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs; Chiefs of Ontario; Canadian Friends Service Committee (Quakers); Treaty Four First Nations; Assembly of First Nations of Que bec and Labrador/Assemble e des Premie res Nations du Que bec et du Labrador; Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat; Hul'qumi'num Treaty Group; KAIROS: Canadian Ecumenical Justice Initiatives; First Peoples Human Rights Coalition, collectively submitted a Shadow Report to the United Nations Human Rights Council as well regarding Canada s second UPR. The primary concern within this report was to address the Canadian government s double standard on democracy, human rights, security, and rule of law. On April 26, 2013 Canada s second UPR took place. Canada will respond to the recommendations made at the second UPR in June/September Alongside the UPR process as a new mechanism of council it is important that NGOs, governments, and other stakeholders such as Aboriginal organizations work diligently to promote and protect human rights, especially Aboriginal Peoples rights, because they are often overlooked by governments. Therefore, NWAC will continue to monitor and participate in all proceedings dealing with this file over the coming years and report back to its members on everything that happens. 10

13 NWAC Youth Board Expand their Capacity at the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UN PFII) May New York City, New York NWAC is proud to announce that their Youth Board Members participated in this year's UN PFII and raised issues of concern for Aboriginal women in Canada, expanding their skills and broadening their networks at the international level. The UN PFII is an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council with a mandate to discuss Indigenous issues related to economic and social development, culture, the environment, education, health and human rights. The Youth and NWAC staff participated in daily sessions, Side Events, and Caucus meetings, making the most of their time in New York. On May 21-25, 2013, NWAC representatives also met with the Special Rapporteur on Indigenous Issues, James Anaya during the twelfth session of the UN PFII held in New York. Issues that fall within his mandate, including allegations of human rights violations against Indigenous women and girls, were discussed at length. NWAC then met with Dinah Shelton, the member of the Inter-American Human Rights Commission established by the Organization of American States to promote and protect human rights in the Western Hemisphere, to reiterate their concerns. This was an excellent opportunity to learn about the importance of defending Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, Indigenous and human rights and the role of the United Nations, stated Samantha Lewis, NWAC Board Member from PEI, when reflecting on her participation in Human Rights and International Law training sessions put on by Incomindios, the Swiss human rights organization which advocates for Indigenous issues worldwide. We are so proud of our youth; they are strong, bright women and they are the leaders of tomorrow! We are confident that they will continue to advance the rights of Aboriginal Peoples, both domestically and around the globe, stated NWAC President Audette. NWAC's Youth read a Joint Statement on the study on the extent of violence against Indigenous women and girls in terms of Article 22 (2) of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, signed on to by 11 other Aboriginal and Human Rights organizations, calling for a comprehensive Plan of Action to address violence. NWAC and its partners have called on the Harper Government to make this a greater priority. President Audette further stated that, this Government can no longer remain idle; immediate actions are needed to prevent the high rates of violence against our Aboriginal women and girls. The Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous People (EMRIP) July Geneva, Switzerland In 2007, the Human Rights Council (also known as the UN s main human rights body) created the Expert Mechanism on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (EMRIP) under Resolution 6/26 as a subsidiary body of council. The responsibility of the Expert Mechanism is to provide the Human Rights Council with advice relating to human rights issues affecting Indigenous Peoples. This task is generally carried out in the form of studies and research. In addition, the Council may receive, for its consideration and approval, suggested proposals from the Expert Mechanism. Appointed by the Human Rights Council, there are five independent experts on the rights of Indigenous peoples who comprise the Expert Mechanism. The ex- 11

14 perts are appointed by the Human Rights Council to meet the following criteria; Experts are of Indigenous origin; a gender balance is established; and lastly there is a geographic representation. Each year in July the Expert Mechanism holds an annual session where by Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous Organizations, and representatives from States, civil society, inter-governmental organizations and academia can attend. Past and Present Expert Mechanism Reports and Studies In 2009, the Expert Mechanism submitted its first study on Indigenous Peoples Right to Education. Alongside the study, they provided advice, which included recommendations on how to better address Indigenous Peoples right to education. A second study was put forward in September 2011 to bring forth the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to Participate in Decision-Making Processes. This submission included a Progress Report, and a Final Report, which included advice as well. In September 2012, The Expert Mechanism submitted two reports and one study to the Human Rights Council. They are as follows: A Report on the Right of Indigenous Peoples to Participate in Decision-Making. This study primarily focusses on extractive industries; To accomplish the goals of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, a report was created to craft possible measures and implementation strategies to engage states on Best Practices; A study focused on ways in which we can protect the rights and identity of Indigenous Peoples through languages and culture. NWAC along with other Aboriginal and equality-seeking organizations participated in the July 2013 session in Geneva, Switzerland to discuss the issues being raised. This includes discussing the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples to share best practices in an attempt to improve the lives of Indigenous Peoples, highlighting the importance of Indigenous women s rights and freedoms needing to be implemented. NWAC also participated in the side events and met with the North American Indigenous Peoples Caucus to strategize on recommendations for the Committee for future areas of study. NWAC signed on to Joint Statements and submitted its own report on the issue of Access to Justice. In September 2013, the Expert Mechanism as requested by the Human Rights Council in 2012 will present the final study on Access to Justice in the promotion and protection of the rights of Indigenous Peoples. 12

15 Aboriginal Voting in Canada The lack of citizen interest in community-based initiatives as well as low election turnouts are common trends within Canadian society, particularly among those living in poverty, such as many First Nations. Aboriginal groups who seek to challenge citizen apathy and promote participation are often faced with legal or funding restrictions, thereby limiting their ability to promote and teach human rights awareness and civic education among our communities. According to Elections Canada, Aboriginals could be expected to vote in federal elections at the same rate as non-aboriginals, if it were not for the following: lower rate of registrations, fewer economic resources, and weaker sense of civic duty, younger average age and poorer socioeconomic conditions. If these determinants were addressed, Elections Canada notes that voter turnout among Aboriginals would increase by 20 percent, therefore closing the gap between them and non-aboriginals. Aboriginal peoples have resisted and struggled to reconstitute their traditional forms of political representation and governance practices, to maintain control of their own affairs, and to have governments be accountable to them. This limited involvement is ironic because prior to the Indian Act, or where the Indian Act regime is not applied, First Nations were global leaders in democracy. Democracy does not mean elections with ballots: it means the voice of the people in the selection of their leaders and in the decision-making of governments. In Canada, the need to promote active participation at the grassroots level is critical to strengthening democracy. NWAC is awaiting funding for a proposed two-fold civic participation initiative before the next federal election occurs. Alongside our Provincial, Territorial Member Associations, NWAC would aim to heighten women s awareness about the importance of active participation in society and to encourage women to exercise their political, legal and social rights. Due to the growing Aboriginal population in Canada, it is crucial to impact on voting habits now while people are young. NWAC hopes to hold sessions with youth around the age of sixteen to encourage and prepare them of the importance of voting come next election. In the case of women s groups, NWAC has developed strategic and gender sensitive ways to teach and organize Aboriginal women, who are for the most part poor, have lower levels of education, and often suffer from low self-esteem as a result directly or indirectly of Indian Residential Schools. Many Aboriginal women are still dealing with the impacts and trauma which have affected all aspects of their lives and learning. Our proposed workshops, entitled Building on our Leadership, Wisdom and Strengths (Civic Participation Initiative), will encourage and promote overall political awareness, as well as help to foster and increase the full participation of Aboriginal women and youth in engagement, consultation, and decision-making processes within their communities. The main goal of this project is to continue to provide culturally relevant, gender specific information that will contribute to the needs of Aboriginal women, youth, and Elders to foster and raise their civic participation in governance structures and decision-making roles. By increasing the Aboriginal vote in Canada, Aboriginal peoples could significantly influence voting in the next election. Aboriginal Voting in the United States In the United States there have been many tactics to increase Aboriginal voter turnout by the media, tribal organizations and political parties themselves. The president of the National Congress of American Indians, Jefferson Keel (Chickasaw), wanted the largest Native turn out ever at the 2012 polls (nativevote.org). Alongside Rock the Vote, Keel s main goal for this campaign was to get the federal government to create voter registration at Indian Health facilities under the provisions of the National Voter Registration Act of The National Congress of Ameri- 13

16 can Indians identified 18 states where the Native American vote could make an impact on federal elections. In the previous 2012 US federal elections they noted that there were three Native American candidates running for different levels of office. In addition, Alaskan Native peoples make up 16.9 percent of eligible voters and Oklahoma Native peoples make up 11.1 percent of eligible voters in their regions. An Aboriginal vote during election time does make a difference! Report on Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking of Aboriginal Women and Girls Recently NWAC conducted research into the issue of human trafficking for the purposes of sexual exploitation of Aboriginal women and girls in Canada. This report was conducted for the Canadian Women s Foundation Task Force on Trafficking of Women and Girls in Canada as an aide to their preparations to explore human trafficking in Canada on a national scale. An extensive review of the literature, a survey, and many interviews with frontline workers, experiential women, and others were collected into one report. The results of the research highlight the typical path and experiences of Aboriginal women and girls who are pulled into human trafficking for sexual exploitation. This is a path marked by poverty, abuse, unstable homes, and a lack of economic alternatives., Coming from troubled homes where such standards as a decent education and healthy living skills and practices had little opportunity to develop, Aboriginal women and girls often become vulnerable to sexual exploiters (pimps, johns, madams) when moving to cities for more opportunities. Faced with isolation, a lack of support programs or a support network, and lacking the education or skills to gain alternate employment, many would often become vulnerable targets to exploitative pimps and johns. Sadly, many were recruited into a life of sexual exploitation through the ruse of someone claiming to care. What started out for many as a seemingly loving relationship with their partner often spiraled into an abusive and exploitive relationship where their boyfriend pushed them out on the street to bring in money. Once drawn into sexual exploitation, many of these women and girls self-medicate to deal with the trauma of sexual abuse that is prostitution. This led to high rates of substance abuse among the participants in the various studies. When it comes to exiting sexual exploitation, many are blocked by a lack of supports, housing, and viable alternate economic opportunities. That being said, when it came to solutions, the research pushed forth a clear message of what worked: top-down is opposite to what is needed; after a lifetime of being pushed around, commanded, and their own needs discarded and pushed aside, what these women and young girls need is respect, validation, flexibility in treatment, a judgment-free atmosphere, safe housing, childcare, and health care, to name a few. By engaging with these women in a respectful manner and not dictating change, survivors are better able to take charge of their lives and begin to build the life skills and faith-in-self needed to drastically change their lives. One of the most impactful exiting factors was when these women and girls were able to work with a survivor, someone who provided living proof that change and an alternate way of life were possible for them as well. To support these Aboriginal women and girls, and any sexually exploited woman in Canada, the Native Women s Association of Canada advocates for the decriminalization of women prostitutes in Canada and the criminalization of johns, pimps, and others who seek to profit through exploiting these women and girls for the purposes of sex acts. The model supported by NWAC is similar to the Nordic model, and bears much healthier results than an approach that effectively legalizes prostitution as a viable trade or continues to persecute women who are already facing poverty and dealing with childhood and sexual trauma. 14

17 LABOUR MARKET DEVELOPMENT Gathering Together in One Place: Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth The Cultural Connections for Aboriginal Youth (CCAY) Program gave NWAC the opportunity to create and host Gathering Together in One Place, a 2-day forum for young Aboriginal women. Participants had the opportunity to take part in a one day NWAC Financial Literacy Project workshop, and on the second day, come together in a sharing circle to share their personal barriers to employment and economic participation and how they have overcome these barriers. Our goal was to empower young Aboriginal women and help them realize their leadership potential. The gathering took place in Toronto, Ontario on March and brought together 25 young women from across Canada with and Elder, a graphic note taker and a film maker to document the event. From this gathering a short video and graphic posters were created to be shared as a resource in addressing barriers young Aboriginal women face. Below is the poster that was developed with information from our sharing circle. 15

18 NWAC Financial Literacy Project NWAC created a Financial Literacy project for young Aboriginal women, aged years. The project focuses on participants becoming knowledgeable and informed in planning and making financial decisions about their future, understanding the role that money plays in their lives, particularly in terms of economic security and eventual prosperity, and how to treat money as a tool to realize their potential and make their dreams a reality throughout their lives. The object is to help young Aboriginal women increase their knowledge of financial literacy resources, services and supports; to use and further their individual and family s empowerment to make wise and positive financial management decisions. Workshop participants have the opportunity to assess customized resources that are culturally relevant, sensitive and gender specific to meet their learning objectives and potentially transfer these resources into application in their personal financial management planning and decisions. The first phase of the project was a needs assessment survey. The survey was posted online via Survey Monkey in order to assess what topic areas the workshops should concentrate on. We distributed the survey to our networks across Canada and through social media, including the NWAC website, Facebook and Twitter. A total of 247 Aboriginal women completed the survey. With the results of the needs assessment survey, a workbook and train the trainer manual were developed. The workbook is designed for Aboriginal youth aged and is relevant, gender specific, culturally sensitive and uses communication techniques and methods that are meaningful for this age cohort. However, we have found that the information presented in the workshop is beneficial to Aboriginal women of all ages. NWAC hosted three workshops across Canada. These two-day-workshops were facilitated by NWAC staff in Halifax (11 participants), Edmonton (20 participants) and Toronto (45 participants) in February and March of The workshops hosted First Nations, Inuit and Me tis women from each of the four directions. 16

19 Below is a sample activity from the workbook in which participants would fill out and share their answers with the group. Analyzing our childhood experiences with money can often help us to identify why we have many of our behaviours today. My Childhood Experiences with Money Think back to your childhood and how money affected it. Most adults have behaviors that stem from their childhood experiences and how they processed or dealt with them. Did you grow up in a poor, rich, or middleclass environment? Do you have happy or sad memories of your childhood? Did you have nicer toys or clothes than your friends or not and how did you feel about it? Did you get an allowance? If so, was it occasional or regular and did you need to do any chores for it? What did you do with your allowance? Did you get a job as a teenager to earn some money? (If yes, explain what job you did and how you spent the money If you have behaviours that you want to improve it s best to find out why you developed them so you can try to fix them more effectively! 17

20 Aboriginal Women s Business Entrepreneurship Network (AWBEN) Project In December 2012, the Native Women s Association of Canada announced the undertaking of the Aboriginal Women s Business Entrepreneurship Network (AWBEN) project being funded by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC). This project will provide aspiring and current female Aboriginal entrepreneurs with opportunities to network with one another and obtain resources to enhance business opportunities, skills and networks that will produce positive economic benefits for women and their families. Early 2013 was the inception phase, which involved setting in motion the creation of an Aboriginal Women s Entrepreneurship Network, hosting a national conference, and establishing the AW- BEN Advisory Committee. On March 14-15, 2013, NWAC hosted a 2-day conference in Toronto to develop the AWBEN. Over the course of two days, speakers and participants from around the country exchanged their perspectives and shared their experiences, contributing to the initial stages of development of a unique mentor-ship-driven virtual network for Aboriginal Women Entrepreneurs. The conference included speakers from a variety of industries such as natural resources and the digital economy. Illustration boards were created simultaneously during the conference activities to capture the in-depth discussions, themes and outcomes at the event. NWAC how now entered the second phase of the AWBEN project. Key activities that have been and will be undertaken in this phase include: hiring a full-time Coordinator to manage the project, hosting AWBEN Advisory Committee meetings, creating and implementing virtual structures, developing promotional material for a membership drive, and participating in various tradeshows, conferences and forums to generate membership. In February 2014, NWAC will be hosting a national group mentoring seminar for AWBEN members and local Aboriginal women that will focus on developing and enhancing business opportunities. NWAC will also be facilitating the development of Aboriginal business networks in key locations in Canada for aspiring and existing female Aboriginal entrepreneurs. NWAC looks forward to developing a network of innovative and dedicated Aboriginal Businesswomen by building on work already undertaken within this initiative. To access more information, please contact: tedwards@nwac.ca 18

21 A Mentorship Culture for Aboriginal Women Entrepreneurs by Dan Peters, Partnership Coordinator, LMD, NWAC Mentorship is a process based on relationships. The soon-to-be rolled out NWAC Aboriginal Women s Business Entrepreneurship Network (AWBEN) will be a place where mentorship is a constant and will be the foundation of the network. Everyone in the network will be involved in some sort of mentorship activity either as a mentor or mentee or perhaps both. The network itself will look for established networks like the Quebec Women s Business Network and other Women s Business Networks that have achieved success to assist in AW- BEN s development. AWBEN will use a structured mentoring format with room for adaptation. Like any relationship it is progressive with costs and benefits. NWAC s goal is to ensure that both mentor and mentee achieve benefits from the relationship. Below are four phases that will ensure the mentorship culture of AWBEN stays strong. Phase 1-The preparing phase requires reflective practice and preparation of both oneself and the relationship. Individual assessment of mentoring skills helps identify areas for the mentors and mentees learning and development. Phase 2- This is when details of the relationship get hammered out: when and how to meet, mutual responsibilities, ground rules, criteria for success, accountability, and how and when to bring the relationship to closure. Phase 3- This phase offers the greatest opportunity for learning and development, yet mentoring partners often face challenges during this time that make them vulnerable to relationship derailment. The mentors role during this phase is to nurture mentee growth by maintaining an open and affirming learning climate. Phase 4-The final phase, coming to closure, presents a dynamic learning opportunity for mentors and mentees to process their learning and move on. Coming to closure involves evaluating the learning, acknowledging progress and celebrating the learning achievement. The following link provides a snapshot of a mentoring program that is established and can be used to understand somewhat of the model NWAC will work to create. 19

22 VIOLENCE PREVENTION AND SAFETY NWAC Digital Life Stories As part of NWAC s commitment to the issue of missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls, three new Life Stories were created in partnership with Aboriginal families. The Life Stories are a part of Evidence to Action II (ETAII), a project funded by Status of Women Canada. These digital Life Stories build on NWAC s legacy of working directly with families who have a missing or murdered loved one and highlights the importance of sharing, caring, raising awareness and working towards prevention. These three new Life Stories are a new addition to the ten Life Stories available at This unique process enabled family members to share the life story of their daughter, sister, mother or grandmother and reflect on their experiences with the justice system, the media, victim services and other support services. Evangeline s Story: Evangeline Billy was 24 years old when she was murdered in June Her body was found along the Whitehorse waterfront in June Perpetrator was convicted of second-degree murder in October Gladys Story: Gladys went missing in June 2004 from the Campbellton Regional Hospital, Campbellton, NB. Eight years later her remains were found in a water reservoir on September 9, RCMP did not suspect foul play but her family believes her death was suspicious. Virgina s Story Virginia Sue Pictou-Noyes disappeared on April 23, 1993 from the Eastern Maine Medical Centre in Bangor, Maine. That was the last documented known place where she was last seen. Virginia is still missing; it is still an open case. If you have any information on Virginia s disappearance, please call the Maine State Police at If you would like more information on the Digital Life Stories, please contact NWAC at or visit our website at 20

23 The Native Women s Association of Canada Co-hosted the 2013 Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival and International Competition Pow Wow The Native Women s Association of Canada (NWAC) was honoured to be the co-host of the 2013 Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival and International Competition Pow Wow that took place over the weekend of June 21 st to celebrate National Aboriginal Day in Ottawa at Vincent Massey Park. The 2013 Summer Solstice Aboriginal Arts Festival and Pow Wow was a place where many gathered to celebrate the diverse cultures of First Nations, Me tis and Inuit peoples in the National Capital Region. For 2013 it is estimated that there were about 20,000 visitors to the event over the weekend. As a special feature to this year s festivities, NWAC launched the newly completed NWAC Faceless Dolls Project, which is an outstanding collection of 600 felt dolls that were made mostly by women from coast-to-coast-to coast to honour our missing and murdered Aboriginal women and girls in Canada. The completed collection of felt dolls was displayed the entire weekend in the NWAC information tent. Another exciting feature of this event was the interactive workshops that took place on Aboriginal Education Day on June 21 st, On education day there were 3500 students and teachers that came to visit the Summer Solstice Festival grounds and took part in the series of workshops offered. NWAC was offering a series of Community Engagement Workshops where students and teachers could view and learn about the Faceless Dolls project and also make their own paper version of the faceless dolls to take home. Aboriginal Education Day on June 21 st NWAC Faceless Dolls Workshop NWAC also had some notable visitors on Education Day that came to learn about the Faceless Dolls Project and to make their own doll. The Honourable Governor General David Johnston and Ontario Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Zimmer both took part in the workshop and spoke with the students in the NWAC tent. This was a great opportunity to show hands on work that NWAC does on raising awareness on the issue of Missing and Murdered Aboriginal women and girls. The 2013 Summer Solstice event was a great success and NWAC was happy to be the co-host for such an important event where NWAC could promote the work we do and celebrate our diverse cultures with people in the Ottawa community. To learn more about the Faceless Dolls project go to: -project 21

24 Ontario Minister of Aboriginal Affairs David Zimmer, National Association of Friendship Centres President Vera Pawis Tabodondung, Honourable Governor General David Johnston and NWAC Staff Jennifer Lord at the NWAC tent for Education Day on National Aboriginal Day June 21st (left to right) Aboriginal Education Day on June 21 st NWAC Faceless Dolls Workshop 22

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