AIAI RECOGNIZES INDIGENOUS WOMEN ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
London, Ontario March 8th, 2023 – The Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians (AIAI) wishes to express our gratitude and to honour all Indigenous women today on International Women’s Day. We honour them for their strength, hard work, and integrity in the role they play as teachers, protectors, and caregivers in our lives.
Grand Chief Joel Abram states “When Stacia Loft became Deputy Grand Chief I was given a great gift that day to work with such a strong, knowledgeable woman that has given much of her time for our peoples. In addition I am equally blessed to get to work with the women Chiefs Chief Denise Stonefish, Chief Laurie Carr, and Chief Mary Duckworth. I have know them for along time and their work has been an inspiration to so many of us and I hope others will follow in their footsteps.”
Deputy Grand Chief Stacia Loft says “It’s important that today we recognize all women for their hard work and dedication but it is equally important that we continue to do so everyday. Women like the late Lois Cornelius or our current AIAI Elder Olive Elm, have helped us by providing guidance, sharing their lived experiences, knowledge, teachings and prayers. Women, such as those serving on the AIAI Youth Council, have demonstrated a real passion for the work in addressing the needs of our peoples, which is not only motivating but also inspiring.”
AIAI would like to recognize all women; the daughters, the mothers, the grandmothers, the aunties & sisters for their guidance, support, and the love they have given to us and we shall return it in gratitude.
