NationTalk: Kigali, Rwanda – The Ontario Native Women’s Organization (ONWA) is participating in the highly anticipated Women Deliver 2023 Conference (WD2023), taking place in Kigali, Rwanda from July 16-20. ONWA’s delegates are eager to join the global conversation on gender equality and amplify the voices and advocacy of Indigenous women and youth on the global stage.

The WD2023 Conference, recognized as the world’s largest conference on gender equality and the health, rights and wellbeing of women and girls, brings together thousands of individuals and organizations from around the globe. With a focus on inclusivity, holding space for women, and coming together in solidarity, the WD2023 Conference aims to foster dialogue, collaboration, and action to advance gender equality. The Conference provides a unique platform for activists and advocates, policymakers and politicians, professionals, and grassroots organizations to come together to share experiences, strategies, and best practices. Through interactive sessions, workshops and panel discussions, attendees will explore innovative solutions, advocate for policy change, and create new partnerships to address the most pressing challenges facing women and girls today.

ONWA’s delegation, which includes ONWA’s CEO, staff, and members of the Board of Directors, including a member of ONWA’s Youth Council, will actively engage in critical conversations on the need to uphold Indigenous women’s rights. By attending the Conference, ONWA aims to shed light on the unique challenges and systemic barriers Indigenous women face, showcase the leadership and strength of Indigenous women, and advocate for policy changes that keep Indigenous women safe and ensure they are included in discussions and decision-making on issues that impact their lives.

“The WD2023 Conference is an opportunity continue our advocacy on the global stage, build our capacity as an organization and for our youth, and to foster relationships with other Indigenous women and Indigenous women’s organizations around the world. I’m honoured to be able to bring my experience as an Indigenous woman to this global platform” Roxanne Ruediger, Director, ONWA

“We are at a critical junction – Indigenous women are not safe in Canada or around the world and continue to have to negotiate their safety to meet their basic needs, often because of systemic barriers. Global conferences like WD2023 are an opportunity for collective advocacy to hold governments accountable and reclaim Indigenous women’s leadership” Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO, ONWA

ONWA is honoured to have the opportunity to contribute to the global conversation at the WD2023 Conference. ONWA firmly believes that not only will matriarchal Indigenous women’s rights provide better outcomes for Indigenous women, but that Indigenous women’s rights and knowledge will provide better outcomes for all women in Canada and around the world.

For more information and media inquiries, contact: 

Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager

Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)