Virtual Event
Fireside Session: Highlighting CSVANW Programs
The National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center (NIWRC) hosts Fireside Sessions. These events provide communal gathering spaces meant to help heal, connect, and reflect on the ongoing heart work within Indian Country from Indigenous organizations. The NIWRC will join the Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women (CSVANW) for this Fireside Session titled “Fireside Session: Highlighting CSVANW Programs.” In this webinar, Charolette Gonzales, CSVANW Policy and Advocate Director, will present the various federally funded programs the coalition provides to showcase how federal dollars can support the community.
About the Speaker
Charolette Gonzales proudly identifies as a Navajo woman from Waterflow, Farmington, New Mexico, and as a Pueblo woman from San Ildefonso Pueblo. Growing up primarily in Northern New Mexico, she developed a deep connection to San Ildefonso Pueblo, where she immersed herself in her cultural lifestyle, including the Navajo coming-of-age ceremony.
Charolette pursued higher education at Fort Lewis College, earning degrees in Political Science and Criminal Justice Studies. Her academic journey, combined with her lived experiences, cultivated a strong commitment to policy change and advocacy for underrepresented communities. Her passion for justice was further fueled by her work supporting victims of domestic violence.
After completing an internship with the La Plata County District Attorney’s Office in the Restorative Justice Program, Charolette was invited to serve as the Restorative Justice Director. In this role, she implemented innovative practices that significantly reduced recidivism rates in La Plata County, making a meaningful impact on the local justice system.
Now stepping into her role as Policy and Advocacy Director at CSVANW, Charolette plans to leverage her knowledge and dedication to advance systemic change for Native communities. She also aspires to attend law school to continue her journey in advocacy and pursue a career as a lawyer dedicated to uplifting her community.
