b'QUILTS FOR SURVIVORSThe house where Quilts for Survivors operates out of in Timmins, Ont. Source:Vanessa Gnier.A group of Survivors were honoured with quilts on Orange Shirt Day, Sept. 30, 2022, at an event hosted by the Toronto Council Fire Native Cultural Centre.and non-Indigenous quilters will gather. Theres still a lot of racism in Canada towards Indigenous people and other people coming into the country, but to be supported by the people whose ancestors hurt our ancestors means a lot, said Gnier. VanessaGnier in her happy place at the sewing machine.Credit: Katherine Gnier. Gnier also offers weekly sewing lessons through Zoom and has a strong social media presence, even planning to start a podcast.Gnier is more than the face of Quilts for Survivors; she worksIt definitely brings a lot of joy in my life knowing that Im about 60 hours a week, dedicated to her cause and her love ofmaking something that will brighten someones day, said sewing. I just really enjoy talking with the Survivors and answeringGnier. Our talents are the power that the Creator has given their questions, and sometimes theyll call and thank us for theirusif youre an artist, you should be using your art in a quilt, said Gnier. good way.Her sewing studio has become a social gathering place whereFor more information on Quilts for Survivors, visit their website healing laughter can be heard. In September of 2024, she will hostat www.quiltsforsurvivors.ca as well as their Facebook group, a second annual sewing retreat in Timmins, where both SurvivorsQuilts for Survivors. Serving Indigenous Families in the Nbisiing Territoryktigaaningmidwives.com32Spring/Summer 2024'