YORKTON, Saskatchewan, March 15, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, the Honourable Carol Skelton, Minister of National Revenue and Member of Parliament (Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar), announced funding of $17,100 for the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Women's Circle Corporation. These funds will enable the organization to develop two Aboriginal Women's Self-Governance workshops to be delivered in Prince Albert and Keeseekoose First Nation.
"Canada's New Government is committed to improving the quality of lives of Aboriginals across the country," said Minister Oda. "I am proud to support this project, which will help Aboriginal women to participate actively in the life of their community."
"I congratulate the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Women's Circle Corporation for organizing these workshops," said Minister Skelton. "This project will directly affect the quality of life for participants and benefit their community, both culturally and socially."
"Canadian Heritage is providing a unique opportunity for the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Women's Circle Corporation to engage with Aboriginal women across the province on governance issues, challenges and priorities," said Judy Hughes, President of the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Women's Circle Corporation. "It acknowledges the basic principles of women's access, equality and the right to be involved in Aboriginal governance processes."
These workshops will provide Aboriginal women with a safe and positive environment where they can discuss their vision and priorities, and address self-governance issues. Participants will gain knowledge of governance and empowerment issues, which will increase their capacity to influence public policy and decision-making at all levels of government while preserving their Aboriginal cultural identity and traditions.
Canada's New Government has provided this funding through the Aboriginal Women's Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program seeks to enable Aboriginal women to influence the policies, programs, legislation, and decision-making that affect their social, cultural, economic and political well-being within their own communities and Canadian society.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
819 997-7788
Danielle Maier
Communications Advisor
Regional Office of the Minister of National Revenue
306 780-8236
Angela Cassie
A/Director of Communications
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204 983-4367
