"Ganohkwasra hosts women's shuffle, honoring 'One Billion Rising' campaign"

OHSWEKEN - On Friday, Ganohkwasra hosted a One Billion Rising for Justice event at their lodge from noon to just after 1 p.m. Ganohkwasra, translated as 'Love Among Us' in the Cayuga language, is located on the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. Ganohkwasra is a unique family violence support agency offering safety, protection and support to First Nations women, youth, children and men who have been impacted by family violence and abuse.

The event began with an opening prayer and some beautiful words about respecting and honouring women. Sandra Montour conveyed true emotion as she spoke about the women and families she sees in the community and on a daily basis. "Use this time as an opportunity to think about these women affected by violence. I see them everywhere. I have so much respect for everyone who walks through this door trying to do better for themselves and their children."

The event shared much of the same sentiment as the nation-wide vigils for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women on February 14th and events for International Women's Day on March 8th. Background information on the One Billion Rising campaign was given and its official YouTube video was shown, as well as a video called 'Man Prayer.' Female attendees were invited to do the Iroquois Women's Shuffle and the One Billion Rising choreographed dance featured in the video. A light lunch was enjoyed and people socialized as the event wrapped up.

The One Billion Rising campaign builds upon the energy and momentum that was created in 2013 when one billion people in 207 countries came together to strike, dance, and rise to end violence against women and girls. This year, the focus is on the issue of justice for all survivors of gender violence, and ending the rampant impunity that prevails globally.

One Billion Rising for Justice is a global call to women and others to gather safely in community places where they are entitled to the justice and safety they deserve. It is a call to survivors to break the silence and share their experiences in whatever way they feel, whether it be a community gathering, a large march through a major metropolis, song, dance, etc. Ganohkwasra honoured this global call, as did people in hundreds of cities around the world.

Ganohkwasra also incorporated the woman's shuffle into their event so as to honour cultural practices. As Sandra pointed out, "We dance the women's shuffle while men play the drum and sing to honour the women and recognize them, like we have always done. These women are your mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, cousins and aunts."

The One Billion Rising for Justice Dance is danced around the world by men, women, and children on February 14th every year. To honour over 20 years of organizing MMIW Vigils and marches on February 14th Ganohkwasra instead chose a day close to International Women's Day. It appeared to be a good choice, as the event was filled with happiness, honour and healing. Those who attended seemed to really enjoy the speakers, videos and dancing and, of course, gathering for food afterwards.