Aboriginal Women’s Conference
The
first province-wide Aboriginal women’s conference, The Path to the
Good Life for Aboriginal Women, was held in Happy Valley-Goose Bay
from March 13-15, 2006. This conference was the first of its kind in
Newfoundland and Labrador. Consultations were held by Aboriginal
women in 26 communities across the province to determine the
objectives of the conference.
The main topics discussed at the
first conference were culture, the justice system, governance,
employment, violence, housing, access to programs and funding, and
health care.
The second conference, The Path to the Good Life: Moving Forward,
Building Strength, was held in Stephenville from November 23-26,
2006. The main topics covered at this conference were the justice
system, and poverty reduction.
The third annual conference, The Path to Economic Prosperity, was held in St. John's on March 12-14, 2008. Participants of the conference attended presentations from community and Provincial Government representatives about the emerging and growing industries in the province, as well as educational and entrepreneurship opportunities.
The conferences provide Aboriginal
women with the opportunity to connect, share experiences and plan
steps necessary to improve the quality of life in their communities.
Representatives from all Aboriginal groups in the province
participate in the conferences. The conferences are planned by a
steering committee made up of representatives from Aboriginal groups
and communities across the province and the Women’s Policy Office.
The steering committee nominates the delegates who attend the
conference.
National
Aboriginal Women's Summit
The National Aboriginal Women's Summit took place from June
20-22, 2007 in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador. The Summit
brought together approximately 150 Aboriginal women and 150
representatives from all levels of Government and Aboriginal
organizations from across Canada.
Topics discussed at
the Summit were based on three themes: 1) Health, Safety and
Wellness 2) Equality and Empowerment and 3) Strength, Balance and
Honour. As a result of the discussions at the Summit 39 priorities
were highlighted which all levels of government, as well as a number
of national Aboriginal groups committed to working towards.
For more information
on the Summit please visit:
http://www.laa.gov.nl.ca/laa/naws/english.htm
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