The strength of matriarchy: Lessons from my Mother

Written by Shaneeka Forrester for RTOERO in honour of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025. Shaneeka is a Cree artist, mother and advocate from Brunswick House First Nation, planting roots in Simcoe County, Ontario.

Many Indigenous communities pride themselves on being matriarchal societies since time immemorial. Growing up, I often heard my mother speak about life in such a society. She shared stories of women in her community holding positions of power and influence, emphasizing that women played an important role and no decision was made for the community without their approval. Her stories highlighted the power and strength women held inherently in our communities.

As a child, I often encountered situations and spaces that held views contrary to those upheld at home. My peers, and sometimes even their parents, would claim that girls were incapable of certain activities simply because of their gender. This sentiment never made sense to me. I couldn’t understand how a boy could do something that I could not, nor why their perspective was more valued.

However, my Mother always encouraged her daughters to speak up against injustice and modelled the confidence needed to do so. Whether addressing issues at school or standing up for someone being mistreated, she was the first to act. She taught us not to stay silent or accept the status quo; no living being was more important than another; all life was to be respected and honoured.

I vividly remember her fierce protection of us, her children. She would joke, “Nobody messes with my cubs,” and I always felt safe and supported by her.

Due to disenfranchisement, my Mother only had a grade 3 education but decided to return to school as a mature student. She radiated joy as she built relationships with her peers and completed her assignments. She had moments where she struggled with her coursework, but she never gave up, even if it meant staying up late to study extra. Watching her excel and graduate filled me with so much pride.

She showed me that matriarchs have the ability to transform and lead in new ways as they navigate a different society. She taught me that resilience can also transform who we are, what is expected of us and how we adapt to the world around us.

Being part of a matriarchal society has allowed me to witness the incredible strength of the women before me. Watching women pave the way for the generations after them helps unite and heal our society. Their resilience, grace, and advocacy encourage me daily as they continue to serve our community.

International Women’s Day (March 8) is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality. Many cultures have long honoured the leadership and wisdom of women, particularly in matriarchal and matrilineal societies where women hold key roles in governance, community and family. Since it’s creation by UN resolution in 1975, the day has served as a reminder of the strength found in these traditions and the ongoing work needed to ensure equity and respect for all.