The Women and Water Coming Together Symposium is an initiative organized by Abiinooji Aki Inc. (AAI), supported by the Lac Courte Oreilles (LCO) Tribe and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC). This annual event was first held in 2016 on the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation in Wisconsin, bringing together women from across the U.S. to focus on the importance of clean water and environmental stewardship. The event is inspired by Ojibwe Grandmother Maryellen Baker and emphasizes cultural approaches to healing, empowerment, and advocacy for water protection. Its long-term vision includes mobilizing thousands of women to advocate for clean water laws to benefit future generations.
The symposium is part of AAI's broader work, which includes hosting culturally tailored conferences and training programs on healing and recovery within Native communities. This initiative integrates traditional ecological knowledge and addresses pressing issues like water privatization and environmental justice. To learn more, you can visit their website at Spirit of the Water