Celebrating Indigenous Women: Story Tellers, Trailblazers, and Environmental Advocates With the month of March almost behind us, the spring blossoms are beginning to peak out at us in anticipation of warmer weather. You can feel the change of seasons palpable in the sweet spring air. March brings more than just a shift in seasons; it also marks a significant event celebrated worldwide: International Women's Day, observed every March 8th. This month at AHF we have spent some time reflecting on the significant impact women have had on progressing Indigenous rights in our country. Like the weaving of a tapestry, our communities have been shaped by the strong women that have come before us, those they have inspired, and those who will be empowered by their example. Indigenous women have and continue to play pivotal roles as our leaders, activists, artists, and caregivers, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural, social, and political landscape of Canada. In this article, we honour and uplift the stories of these remarkable women whose resilience, wisdom, and passion have enriched the fabric of our society. Keep reading to meet three Indigenous women who have made pivotal changes as Story Tellers, Trailblazers and Environmental Advocates. Meet Tanya Talaga, an award-winning Canadian journalist and author renowned for her investigative work on various issues plaguing Indigenous peoples throughout the country. Tanya’s storytelling amplifies marginalized voices, sheds light on systemic injustices, and advocates for meaningful change in our communities. Her impactful books, including "Seven Fallen Feathers" and "All Our Relations," have sparked crucial conversations about reconciliation and the enduring legacy of colonialism in Canada. You can read more about her work as President and CEO of Makwa Creative, a fully Indigenous owned media company, here. The second trailblazer whose story I’m privileged to share with you is Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, a distinguished Indigenous activist, and former president of the Native Women's Association of Canada. An Anishinaabe woman from Wikwemikong Unceded Territory, Jeannette has dedicated her life to elevating the voices and concerns of Indigenous women in Canada and beyond. Like many Indigenous women before her Jeannette was stripped of her Indigenous Status when she married a Non-Status man. Showing resilience, Jeannette took the Federal Government to court in 1971. Although she was not successful in her legal battle, her efforts resulted in the passing of Bill C-31 in 1985, which repealed the discriminatory sections of the Indian Act. In 1985, Lavell was among many Indigenous women who regained their status. The third influential woman I want to highlight is Autumn Peltier, a remarkable Indigenous water activist also from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory in Canada. At a young age, Autumn gained international recognition for her impassioned advocacy for clean water and Indigenous rights. Autumn’s powerful speeches and activism have led her to become a prominent voice in the fight against water pollution and the protection of water as a sacred resource. As a member of the Wiikwemkoong First Nation and a nominee for the International Children's Peace Prize, Peltier continues to inspire people worldwide with her determination and commitment to environmental justice. These are just three examples of remarkable Indigenous women and their impact on our country. Let us continue to uplift their voices, support their endeavors, and work towards a future where their legacies inspire generations to come. Their resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to their communities and beyond serve as a testament to the enduring strength and spirit of Indigenous women across Canada. Chi Miigwech, Brooke Harrison Senior Marketing, Communications and Donor Relations Manager If you’re interested in nominating a community member to be spotlighted in an upcoming series titled “Community Corner: Highlighting Our Local Heroes” please send their story to Brooke Harrison at bharrison@aht.ca | 
