BIRCH ISLAND—In recognition of International Women’s Day, the Coalition Against Domestic Violence, which includes many partners, provided a full day of speakers, activities and services promoting relaxation and good health for women. The event was held at White Fish River First Nation, and the hall filled quickly with interested participants.
The day began with a beautiful prayer, offered by Marti Pitawanakwat. Centering everyone’s thoughts on love and gratitude.
Amy Collins, executive director of Manitoulin Northshore Victim Services, opened the day with a few remarks. “Together with our partners, we aim to do our part in keeping our community safe…We’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go…So, take this moment to reflect and celebrate and share a moment in time with each other,” she said. Ms. Collins pointed out the community partners present – Manitoulin Legal Clinic, OPP, Sexual and Domestic Violence Services, Noojmowin Teg, and Manitoulin Family Resources (specifically their Haven House Shelter and 24 hr. Crisis Line).
Leanne Lewis was the first speaker of the day. A strong advocate for women and children, Ms. Lewis shared her experience as a realtor taking part in the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation’s ‘Challenge for Shelter’ trekking series in 2023. She exceeded her goal of $10,000, raising over $15,000, with 80 percent of the funds staying in our community – specifically for Manitoulin Family Resources’ Haven House. The other 20 percent goes to national domestic violence prevention and education programs. After much training, one panic attack and the long journey to Ecuador, Ms. Lewis completed the five-day trek, hiking one of the highest volcanoes in the world, 4,200 metres above sea level, reaching the base of Cotopaxi in five days. It was gruelling, with “physical, mental and emotional challenges, but I had to power through.”
Ms. Lewis ended by sharing she’s been chosen as one of 120 realtors once again to take part in the ‘Challenge for Shelter’ 2025, to Cambodia. “Altitude won’t be the problem this time, but heat…and snakes,” she said. Ms. Lewis is setting her goal at $10,000 once again.
Breaks in between speakers allowed for time to explore the self-care booths. Nicole Murphy, a Registered Massage Therapist, was offering Reflexology to the participants. Theresa Phiri, of Timeless Beauty Spa in Gore Bay, gave mini hand scrubs and hand massages. Kate Kopylova, of Raindrop Harmony Manitoulin Wellness was giving mini chakra balancing sound therapy demonstrations. Marilee Harasym, of Island Oasis, was doing mini manicures, painting a nail purple to bring awareness to ending gender-based violence. Devarati Sammon – Jewellery by Design – was showing us how to make necklaces – tying the knots being the greatest challenge. And there was a photo booth for friends to squeeze in together, get their pictures taken, and come away with a printout as a reminder of this special day.
Teresa Nahwegahbow spoke of her work, since 2022, with the UCCM Anishnaabe Police Service as their Community Mobilization Assistant with the innovative project ‘Lighting the Fire Within.’ “I work directly with the police officers,” Ms. Nahwegahbow explained. The goal of the project is to create connections in the community and work to reduce risk factors and address root causes of intimate partner violence. “Daily I’m encouraged as I see how the UCCM Anishnaabe police officers work to understand how trauma affects others and their acknowledgement and recognition of when policing may need to extend beyond the traditional approach and respond accordingly. True strength comes from empathy, compassion, acceptance and connection, and I can attest that the officers who serve your communities understand the impact of always ‘lighting the fire within,’” she said.
After a Prepped lunch, Constable Nick Beaudry was introduced. The event schedule specified ‘Presentation by PC Nick Beaudry and PSD (Police Service Dog) Ben of UCCM Anishnaabe Police.’ There was much confusion when Const. Beaudry entered the hall with a Chihuahua on a leash. “I didn’t want to disappoint the dog-lovers in the room,” he said. “This is Lola, she’s good at sniffing out snacks.” The officer further explained, “Ben is not a pet, but a tool, with a heartbeat. He’s well trained, but I couldn’t have any mishaps bringing him into a crowded room of people who are not suspects.” Constable Beaudry’s talk consisted mostly of answering questions about his partner. We learned that Ben is a Belgian Malinois, three years old. He and Const. Beaudry graduated from the OPP Academy Canine Training Centre in Orillia, an 18-week course, along with an additional five-week course in drug detection. And we learned Ben has no other human contact except that of his trainer and, no, Ben will not get a pension when he retires, as far as Const. Beaudry is aware. “How do suspects react when they learn the dog is coming?” asked one audience member. “They co-operate very fast,” was the answer.
Const. Beaudry’s presentation was as entertaining as it was informative.
The day ended shortly after Const. Beaudry and Lola left the building, but everyone had much to think about as they travelled home. The talks, the educational resources from the community partners, the self-care options available – all contributed to a worthy recognition of International Women’s Day.
by Margery Frisch
