b'INUIT LEADERSHIPFor Adams, Simons identity as both anof your culture and the wisdom of yourSYSTEMIC CHANGE Inuit woman and a political figure bringsancestors, you realize that you are notFROM WITHINa unique approach to leadership, one thatalone. That knowledge is what gives usAdams also sees Simons appointment as previous Governor Generals lacked. Shesthe resilience to continue advocating foran opportunity for Indigenous women to breaking ground for Inuit women to takeour rights, our language and our land. transform Canadian political systems from on leadership positions, and thats huge,within. Her role is about more than just Adams says. Simon is embodying prideAdams emphasizes how Simons leader- representation. Shes using her position as an Inuk woman. Shes leading in a wayship has opened doors for others: Ifto influence policies and practices that that aligns with our cultural values, andyoure an Indigenous woman watchinghave historically marginalized Indigenous that makes a difference. Mary Simon, youre seeing that leader- peoples, Adams explains. By embodying ship positions are not just attainable butIndigenous worldviews in a colonial RESILIENCE IN THE FACEnecessary. Shes helping us understandsystem, shes driving real change.OF ADVERSITY that we can lead with our culturalBefore her appointment as Governor But with leadership comes adversity.values intact. General, Simon played a key role in Simon has faced significant harassment, particularly online, which forced her to step away from social mediaa deci-sion not taken lightly in todays hyper- JFKlaw.caconnected world. Adams touches on thisJFKreality: Unfortunately, lateral violence is something many Indigenous women in leadership face. The challenges shes encountered reflect the broader issues we all facestanding up in spaces where weLAW LLParent always welcomed.Victoria . Vancouver . Calgary . Edmonton . Ohsweken . TorontoAdams believes that the strength Simon shows in confronting these barriers speaks to the resilience required of IndigenousCelebrating an outstanding year.women in leadership. We are navigating systems designed to break us, she says. But were still here, and leaders like Mary Simon are showing us that we can thrive in these spaces.Sara MainvilleThe concept of lateral violencewhen members of marginalized communitieselected Managing Partner,attack each other rather than addressing systems of oppressionis somethingJFK Law LLPAdams feels is crucial to discuss. Its important to understand that lateral violence doesnt just harm us individually; it holds us back as a community. If other Indigenous women could feel the strength and love from their peers rather than the negativity, we would have even more Indigenous leaders stepping forward.Image - Frog by Evan AsterCULTURAL RECLAMATION AND PRIDEOne of the most powerful aspects of Simons leadership, according to Adams, is her role in reclaiming Indigenous pride. Our communities have been stripped of pride for generations, but Mary SimonRECOGNIZED INis helping us take that back, she says.THE 2025 EDITION OFShes showing us that our language, ourTHE BEST LAWYERSIN CANADAtraditions and our culture are sources of strength. Its a form of reclamation, and its critical for our future.For Adams, this reclamation is not just about cultural pride but also about resili-ence. When you understand the strength Ontario Native Womens Association25'