EDMONTON, December 17, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, Laurie Hawn, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament (Edmonton Centre), today announced funding for the Aboriginal Women's Professional Association (AWPA).
Funding of $20,070 will allow the AWPA to develop and deliver the project "Mentoring Aboriginal Women in Mainstream Careers: Ask Your Auntie." This initiative will provide a forum in the community where Aboriginal women beginning their career can seek guidance and support in their personal, educational, and career development in a way that honours Aboriginal culture and traditions.
"The Government of Canada is committed to supporting Aboriginal people in taking part in the social, political, economic, and cultural life of the country," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to support this project, which will provide resources and learning opportunities that address the unique needs of Aboriginal women entering their careers."
"Our Government is committed to supporting community organizations like this one," said Mr. Hawn. "The Aboriginal Women's Professional Association delivers programs and services for Aboriginal women in an accessible and culturally relevant way."
"The Aboriginal Women's Professional Association is honoured to receive funding for a mentoring project. We believe that mentoring young Aboriginal women in careers will provide them with a wider view of careers and expectations," said Claire Clark, President of the AWPA. "Young Aboriginal women in our community will benefit greatly from having options in choosing what they want to be."
Since 2003, the AWPA has operated as a registered non-profit organization serving Aboriginal women in Alberta. The AWPA is a grassroots organization that works toward developing strong leadership capabilities that will allow Aboriginal women to play a central role in their communities and participate effectively in Canadian society. As part of the project, the AWPA will host five "Ask Your Auntie" events where participants can interact and learn from each other.
The Government of Canada has provided this funding through the Aboriginal Women's Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program enables Aboriginal women to influence policies, programs, legislation, and decision-making that affect their social, cultural, economic, and political well-being in their communities and in Canadian society. It includes a component to address issues around family violence and a self-government initiative to support the full participation of Aboriginal women in consultations and decision-making processes.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages
819 997-7788
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604 666-6504
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
