Cynthia Stirbys

Cynthia Stirbys is a Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of Windsor. Her work focuses on Indigenous education, reconciliation, gender studies, and trauma-informed social work. She actively engages with issues impacting Indigenous communities, including lateral violence, generational trauma, and reproductive justice.

Her research explores decolonization in higher education, the legacy of residential schools, and creative reconciliation frameworks rooted in René Girard’s mimetic theory. She has contributed to policy discussions on culturally appropriate gender-based analysis and Indigenous rights advocacy.

Stirbys collaborates with institutions like the Paul Martin Law Library and the School of Social Work, organizing events to foster dialogue on reconciliation and Indigenous history. Her work bridges academic research with community engagement, emphasizing practical strategies for healing and systemic change.