Seven Island women departed earlier this week for Yellowknife, where they will spend three days networking, learning and embracing their culture at the second National Aboriginal Women’s Summit, July 29-31, 2008.
The summit commenced last night with a traditional Grand Entrance followed by the ceremonial cleansing. Over 150 women from across the country are converging at this event, where they will identify strategic actions that will lead to long-term positive changes for Aboriginal women and their families. This promises to be an engaging and productive session that provides a much-needed voice for the Aboriginal women of Canada.
“These seven women are joining delegates from coast to coast to coast to work towards advancing the social and economic issues facing Aboriginal women,” said the Honourable Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour. “Strength, Balance and Honour are just a few of the key themes this summit will address. Our government is proud to be sponsoring these women and feels that it is important for them to embrace their culture and share their wisdom and experiences with others.”
Last year, the Government of Prince Edward Island was pleased to support the attendance of five Aboriginal delegates to the first National Aboriginal Women’s Summit, which was held in Corner Brook, Newfoundland. These delegates were associated with the Mi’kmaq Confederacy of Prince Edward Island, the Aboriginal Women’s Association and the Native Council of Prince Edward Island. This, year the Department of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour has provided funding for the attendance of five Aboriginal women delegates, along with two observers.
Details about the second National Aboriginal Women’s Summit, along with the final report from the first Summit, can be found at: www.naws-sfna.ca.