International Youth Day: Amplifying Indigenous Youth Voices

International Youth Day: Amplifying Indigenous Youth Voices

Thunder Bay, ON – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is proud to join the global community in celebrating International Youth Day 2024. This year’s theme, “From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development,” highlights the important role of youth in harnessing digital technologies to drive progress toward the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Today ONWA wishes to highlight the important role of Indigenous youth in harnessing digital technologies to drive progress within their communities.

Improved access to technologies and innovative approaches is critical for improving Indigenous women and girls’ safety and meaningful inclusion. Equitable access to education in areas like science and technology is needed as it can lead to greater opportunities in a fast-changing digital world for Indigenous women and girls.

As the oldest and largest Indigenous women’s organization in Canada, with over 50 years of experience in activism, community development, policy, research, and front-line services, ONWA proudly stands with and elevates the voices of Indigenous youth. Their unique perspectives and vibrant leadership are crucial in shaping a more inclusive and equitable future for all. We honor their resilience and cultural heritage, which contribute significantly to our communities and the broader society.

“Indigenous youth are reclaiming our rightful place as the leaders and trailblazers of our communities. We are the experts on our own lives, and we carry the solutions to the complex issues facing our communities and nations.  Using our voice and taking up our inherent responsibilities is vital to building a future where Indigenous women and girls can live freely and fully, and every Indigenous youth knows that they are a sacred part of Creation” – Alana Robert ONWA Youth Director

“Witnessing and supporting our young Indigenous women on their leadership path is fulfilling and rewarding. Leaders have a responsibility to make not only space for those younger generations, but to find out what their needs and priorities are. We have an obligation to implement those strategies today, for them.  On this International Youth Day, I am personally encouraged by their continued passion and commitment.” – Cora McGuire-Cyrette ONWA CEO

In recognition of International Youth Day, ONWA will be hosting events locally for youth in Thunder Bay. Registration is required for both activities. Lunch will be provided both events.
A Double Ball workshop with Lamarr Oksasikewiyin will be held on August 12 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at ONWA’s Ray Blvd location. Double Ball is a traditional Indigenous game played with 2 small balls that are tethered to each other with leather. The Balls are thrown and caught using sticks similar to Lacross. Each registrant will learn how to play this traditional game and have the opportunity to make their own double ball game to take home and share with their families and communities. Register now at: https://forms.office.com/r/2ykyBGBfhT

On August 13 at ONWA’s Ray Blvd location join Sara Kanutski a local singer, songwriter, journalist and storyteller to be part of an interactive storytelling workshop from 12:00 to 4:00 pm. Each registrant will receive an Indigenous dice story telling game. Register now at: https://forms.office.com/r/XbQRmLtF9B

We hope you’ll join the activities as we honour and amplify the voices of Indigenous youth. ONWA encourages everyone to celebrate, mentor and make space for youth in all the work we do as community.

For more information and media inquiries, contact::
Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca
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