Three local Indigenous women are being added to the City of Thunder Bay’s Women’s History Exhibit.
The online exhibit features biographies and photos of the women who had a major impact on our community and society.
Lauren Halsey is an Associate Archivist with the City of Thunder Bay and explains they wanted to ensure Indigenous women were reflected in their exhibit, “This year, we are excited to bring attention to the contributions that Indigenous women have made to local history.”
This year’s inductees include:
Grandmother Josephine Mandamin, whose life’s journey was to serve the public and help improve the lives of Indigenous people. Her work in Thunder Bay spans over 40 years. She is the recipient of the awards for Indigenous leadership and reconciliation as well as for her water protection work.
Elder Freda McDonald, whose years of research for her work at Fort William Historical Park made her a recognized expert in Ojibwa culture. She has shared her knowledge of Ojibwa culture and spirituality with both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people alike in Thunder Bay and beyond.
Dolores Wawia, who spent a lifetime developing and promoting Aboriginal education. She has been awarded both the Order of Ontario and the Lakehead Alumni Honour Award for her work as a pioneer in Native education.
Eunice Wishart, determined to make a place for women in politics, was elected in 1948 as Port Arthur’s first female alderman and in 1956 as Port Arthur’s first female mayor. Outside of politics, Wishart was also deeply involved in her community by serving within numerous organizations.
