Sadie Hamilton (BA ’19) is a social justice advocate with a passion for disability justice, traditional food sovereignty and criminal justice reform.
As a student, Sadie worked at Native Men’s Residence where they supported Indigenous men who were unhoused in Toronto. They continued to work at the shelter for three years which stimulated their understanding and passion for supporting homeless community members and fueled their interest for working in housing and disability justice.
“I worked with a lot of elderly people, refugees, Indigenous Peoples and people with disabilities. And I saw all the different areas we really need to improve our social welfare system,” says Sadie.
But when it came to seeking their own guidance and support, it would be the Centre for Indigenous Student Services and professors at York that would have a significant impact on their time as a York student.
“I got a lot of personal guidance from Ruth Green [Special Advisor, LA&PS Indigenous Issues] and the social work professors. I received one-on-one feedback, support and insider perspectives that gave me the confidence and knowledge of how the sector works,” says Sadie.
Today, Sadie works as the program advisor for housing and employment programs at the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres. As program advisor, they work with frontline workers to deliver housing and employment programs.
“I just really enjoy working in community and working with people who are criminal justice involved and being able to influence or improve the programming that they're receiving,” says Sadie.
Sadie is the current chair of York University’s Indigenous Alumni Network (YUIAN), which enables Indigenous students and alumni to remain connected and engaged with each other and York University.
“It’s a resource to bridge the gap when you’re graduating. The alumni network would help people that have just graduated and are trying to figure out their work-life balance or seek support and mentorship,” says Sadie. “It’s about having a line of communication going or a touch point where people can get information and stay connected to Indigenous events at York.”