Recipient - 2012 Access Equity and Human Rights Awards

TORONTO, Dec. 4, 2012 /CNW/ - On Wednesday December 5, 2012, The City of Toronto will present the Native Women's Resource Centre of Toronto (NWRCT) with the 2012 City of Toronto Aboriginal Affairs Award.

The Aboriginal Affairs Award was established in 2003 to honour the volunteer contributions made by person(s) or organizations and whose efforts have made or are making a significant or ongoing contribution to the well-being and advancement of the Aboriginal community in Toronto. These contributions can be made for services or advocacy work on issues such as health, shelter work, street work, governance and self determination, human rights, or cultural activities.

Since its inception, NWRCT's mission has been to enhance the self-sufficiency of its membership by providing resources and support that break down the social-economic barriers experienced by urban Aboriginal women and their families.  The Aboriginal Affairs Award, awarded through a community-driven nomination process, recognizes NWRCT's passion and commitment to their mission, as well as the strength of the Centre's programming.  As an organization run by Aboriginal women for Aboriginal women, programming incorporates parenting and child-rearing programs, one of the city's busiest housing programs, an advocacy program established to help members stand up for their civil rights, and a life skills and education program, which includes a bridging program with York University.

Crystal Melin, Executive Director of the NWRCT, said: "Small charities like NWRCT often work under the radar of donors and so it's very important to have our work recognized. Local charities build the Toronto community and make it a better place for all to live and it's great to share in these accomplishments."

Engaging through cultural and spiritual programs, including drumming circles, Ojibway language lessons, full-moon and sweatlodge ceremonies, and the annual Sisters in Spirit Day (officially recognized by the City of Toronto in 2010 and 2011 by naming October 4, Sisters in Spirit Day), further supports and celebrates Aboriginal women and the larger community.

The Native Women's Resource Centre will be presented with the 2012 Aboriginal Affairs Award during the City of Toronto's annual Human Rights Awards Ceremony at City Hall on Wednesday December 5, 2012.  Further awards being presented that evening include: the Constance E. Hamilton Awards, the Access Award on Disability Issues, the Pride Award for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Transsexual, and Two Spirited Issues, and the William P. Hubbard Race Relations Award.

For more information, please contact the NWRCT's Executive Director, Crystal Melin at 416-963-9963 or [email protected].

SOURCE: Native Women's Resource Centre Of Toronto

For more information regarding the 2012 Access Equity and Human Rights Awards, please contact the City of Toronto Office of Equity, Diversity and Human Rights at 416-392-8592 or [email protected].