Ontario Native Women’s Association

The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA), based in Fort William First Nation, ON, is a comprehensive not-for-profit organization delivering culturally enriched programs and services to Indigenous women and their families throughout Ontario. Since its establishment in 1971, ONWA has provided support regardless of status or locality, combining research, advocacy, and policy development with direct community programming at local, regional, and provincial levels.

ONWA's service offerings address critical areas including ending violence against Indigenous women and their families, ensuring equal access to justice, education, and health services, while promoting environmental stewardship and economic development. The organization operates a centralized intake system providing immediate supports and brief services across Ontario, complemented by specialized programs including the Mindimooyenh Health Clinic in Thunder Bay offering COVID-19 and flu vaccination services. ONWA also maintains Talk4Healing, a culturally grounded, confidential helpline available in 14 languages for Indigenous women seeking support.

The organization's commitment extends to preserving Indigenous culture, identity, art, language, and heritage through programs that strengthen communities and promote social and cultural well-being. ONWA welcomes and actively includes all self-identifying Indigenous women and girls, including Two-Spirit people, operating from a human rights framework grounded in the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Through publications like She Is Wise Magazine and ongoing community events such as the annual Sisters in Spirit Vigil, ONWA continues advancing Indigenous women's leadership and healing across the province.