A firekeeper and helper for a Sault Ste. Marie-based Indigenous group that works to address sexual violence and human trafficking is facing a number of sexual assault charges.
Kyle Grawbarger — a firekeeper known for his work with Kii Ga Do Waak Nookimisuk, also known as the Grandmothers Council — has been charged by Ontario Provincial Police with a number of sex-related criminal charges including sexual assault and voyeurism, according to court documents filed at Gore Bay Courthouse on Manitoulin Island earlier this month.
Kii Go Do Waak Nookimisuk is a group led by three Anishinaabe women that works to address sexual violence, exploitation and human trafficking in Indigenous communities in Ontario through the restoration of traditional roles and responsibilities.
Its mandate is to offer healing through traditional ceremonies, counselling, education and training in order to help “raise an understanding of the nature of sexual violence and exploitation committed against Indigenous Peoples,” according to the Kii Go Do Waak Nookimisuk website.
“We work with various agencies in both urban and reserve communities across the province of Ontario, mentoring and fostering traditional leadership roles amongst Indigenous grandmothers and youth to support wellness in addressing gender-based violence,” the website said.
Grawbarger primarily works with the group to erect teepees and establish sacred fires for gatherings and traditional ceremonies both on and off reserve.
The Grandmothers Council was recently featured on SooToday for its creation of a community garden at the Community Resource Centre, where traditional Indigenous medicines such as tobacco, sage and sweetgrass will be grown on site.
Attempts made by SooToday to contact members of the group were unsuccessful.
The 42-year-old Sault Ste. Marie resident is charged with the following offences:
- Sexual assault
- Sexual assault causing bodily harm
- Sexual assault causing bodily harm - choke, suffocate or strangle
- Voyeurism
None of the allegations have been tested in court and the accused is considered innocent unless proven guilty.
Grawbarger's first appearance took place today in Gore Bay. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 27 in Gore Bay.