Coalition’s International Women’s Day theme was ‘Give to Gain’

Full article by the Manitoulin Expositor.

LITTLE CURRENT—On March 8, International Women’s Day, the Mnidoo Mnising Coalition Against Domestic Violence presented a powerful agenda packed with information on how to end the cycle of abuse from financial help, legal assistance and health supports through every step of the process.

Master of Ceremonies Marti Pitawanakwat began the day with a prayer and when she explained that their singer was unable to make it to the event, Lisa Osawamick stood up and offered a beautiful and powerful song that drew everyone in.

The first presenter was Joanne Ferland. Hers was an incredible story of domestic abuse and survival, which led her, as a financial advisor, to initiate the Leap into Financial Empowerment (LIFE) Program at Caisse Alliance Credit Union in North Bay. This program helps survivors of intimate partner violence to regain control of their finances and their lives.

“We offer a free private bank account for one year. This account includes a no fee monthly plan, unlimited transactions for one year, no mail sent home, no phone calls. It is completely private,” Ms. Ferland explained. “We help create a personalized budget that is easy to follow. We offer support in navigating the financial landscape. This part is crucial, because once they see it in black and white, that they can make it on their own, it gives them hope. We also provide referrals to available local programs.” Ms. Ferland’s was a story everyone needed to hear, especially since it brought about hope for others. Everyone agreed, it would be good to see this type of program implemented closer to home.

Meghan Strain was the second presenter. Ms. Strain is a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) in the Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Program at Noojmowin Teg Health Centre. “At Noojmowin Teg Health Centre we believe that community is medicine and bringing everyone together like this is a great opportunity for learning as well as healing,” Ms. Strain said. She talked about the support and help offered by their program. “And what we mean by ‘we will help you’ is, we will hear you, we will believe you, and we will support you.”

The program serves Manitoulin Island and it’s the first community-based program of its kind in the region. “We’re run out of a community health centre rather than an emergency department at a hospital.” Her presentation was thorough in its steps taken to help the victim of domestic violence. “Our program exists because sexual and domestic violence happens in our communities and people deserve support close to home.” 

The third presentation rounding out the support for victims of domestic violence was Leslie de Meulles, founder and principal counsel of LDM Law in Sudbury. Ms. de Meulles is passionate about victims’ rights, and she provides advice and representation to survivors of sexual assault. She spoke in detail of the court processes; free legal advice that’s available – vouchers provided by legal aid clinics entitling the victim to eight hours of free legal advice. “I use the word victim because that’s kind of the official word, victim, but I’m also a survivor as well,” Ms. de Meulles said, though not elaborating. Her talk was thorough and her answers to questions from the audience were detailed. Ms. de Meulles understands the court system, and she clearly knows how to protect victims of domestic violence. 

After a comforting soup and sandwich lunch and a quick bingo game called by none other than Marti Pitawanakwat, who often said throughout the day, “I’ll have to use my bingo voice,” due to problems with the audio system, a panel discussion followed. “A journey through services, with Mnidoo Mnising Coalition Members. This part of the program was very helpful in presenting a situation of domestic violence and all the steps, or hurdles, faced by the victim, that would lead to safety and ultimate freedom. From hospital visit, physical and emotional support, to shelter, and protection. Martha Boyle, of Manitoulin Family Resources, Cynthia Stewart, of Manitoulin North Shore Victims Services, Marissa McCready and Meghan Strain, both of Noojmowin Teg Health Centre walked everyone through the systems of support. The audio system was a greater problem when the four sat at the table with a mic that did little to allow their voices to be heard at the back of the room. People moved in closer, and the panel did their best to project their voices. The audience quieted knowing the information being shared was important. 

The organizers of the event, Martha Boyle and Cynthia Stewart and their teams, knew after the series of talks about sexual and domestic violence, a little self care was in order. The rest of the afternoon was given over to artistic pursuits and those in attendance could choose between painting welcome signs, making Easter flower arrangements or creating simmer pots. Clearly, everyone was happy to get up, move about and express their creative side. There were door prizes and there were support organizations: MFR, Sexual and Domestic Violence, Manitoulin North Shore Victims Services, the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Services, Nookomisnaang Shelter and Expressions – a new dental hygienist – spaced around the room, offering pamphlets, loot bags and, on occasion, advice. A day well planned and thoughtfully executed. 

Marti Pitawanakwat was not only the perfect MC for keeping things moving, and lightening the mood, but her insights, her knowledge and her lived experience, was a great contribution to the theme of the day. “Next year,” she said, “we need the number of people in this room doubled.” And so it should be.

by Margery Frisch