WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH HONOURS ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN B.C

VICTORIA – In honour of Women’s History Month, Aboriginal women in B.C. are being recognized and celebrated for their contributions to our province by Community Services Minister Ida Chong, representatives of the First Nations Leadership Council and the Métis Nation BC today at the Royal BC Museum.

First established by the Government of Canada in 1992, Women’s History Month is an opportunity to learn about women’s contributions, past and present, to Canadian society and to recognize the achievements of women from all walks of life. This year, the theme for Women’s History Month is Aboriginal Women: The Journey Forward.

“Today we’re highlighting the accomplishments of 10 remarkable women,” said Chong. “As Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues, I am pleased there are opportunities to celebrate women who are role models and leaders. The women receiving these awards were selected because they play a prominent role in the political and cultural life of their communities, and we recognize and honour their place in the history of women in British Columbia.”

“It is an honour and a privilege to recognize these women and their significant contributions to our communities,” added Mike de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. “The Aboriginal women being recognized here today have outstanding stories and experiences we can all learn from. Our province is a richer place because of their dedication to supporting and empowering others.”

“First Nations women have always played an integral role in the history and development of our communities – moving us forward to what we are today,” said Chief Judith Sayers, a member of the First Nations Summit Political Executive and First Nations Leadership Council. “It is timely that First Nations women are recognized and celebrated for their accomplishments and vision. We are pleased to be able to take this opportunity to honour these remarkable women who are collectively representative of the significant roles women have in Aboriginal communities.”

“As Métis, we value the contributions of our grandmothers in our culture and history,” said April McLean-Collart, chair of the Métis Women’s Secretariat BC and Minister for Women of the Métis Nation BC. “Women are the very heart and strength in supporting our children, our elders, our families, communities and our Nation. We are very pleased that 10 outstanding Aboriginal women are being honoured for their achievements and are delighted to participate collaboratively with the Province and the First Nations Leadership Council in supporting this event.”

A panel of representatives from the Province, the First Nations Leadership Council and Métis Nation BC, selected five women honourees and five women for honourable mention awards. Nominees were Aboriginal women who have contributed to their communities in one or more of the following categories: Language, Culture and the Arts; Family and Community; Health, Sports and Science; Education; and Public Service, Business and Entrepreneurship.

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Media contact:	Dave Crebo Ministry of Community Services 250 356-6334

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