On March 8th the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) celebrates International Women’s Day as a way to inspire and honour achievements, while encouraging greater advancements and equality.
As ONWA’s Executive Director I was honoured when, in 2017, ONWA was selected to deliver the Indigenous Anti-Human Trafficking Liaisons (IAHTL) Project under Ontario’s Strategy to End Human Trafficking. We had been working to bring this issue to the public’s attention for over a decade. Since the implementation of this important project, ONWA has worked closely with six key partners to establish the strong networks and relationships that are key to safely exiting Indigenous women and girls from human traffickers and gangs. Most importantly, we listened to and engaged with the brave survivors who shared their lived experiences as they are the experts.
ONWA has developed 14 recommendations based on extensive engagement with over 3,360 community members and the ongoing relationship with 250 self-identified human trafficking survivors who have shared their stories. We propose to implement these recommendations through a six part strategy that is rooted in relationship and collaboration:
It is key that when a victim is identified, all barriers are removed to ensure they are survivors. #safeSPACES
On International Women’s Day the Ontario Native Women’s Association continues to address Human Trafficking which is as much a local issue as it is provincial, national and international. We stand with all women and girls today and everyday. #balanceforbetter #IWD2019
Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA Executive Director
For more information, please contact:
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca | Phone: (647) 970-7661
NT5