This release was issued under a previous government.
“We want Aboriginal women to achieve their goals and seize opportunities in Alberta’s growing economy. These councils will help improve Aboriginal women’s economic and social well-being by making their voices and unique perspectives better heard on matters that affect them and their communities.”
The First Nations Women’s Economic Security Council and the Metis Women’s Economic Security Council will be supported by a cross-ministry working group. The councils will report directly to the Minister and offer the working group, other government councils and interested stakeholders advice and recommendations on ways to improve economic outcomes for Aboriginal women.
“The councils will be able to identify the challenges Aboriginal women face in Alberta and will provide advice on how we can work with communities to overcome these barriers. They are a diverse group of women from across the province whose wide range of professional and traditional knowledge and abilities will make a significant contribution to the lives of Aboriginal people in Alberta.”
Cross-government support
- The government working group supporting the councils includes senior representatives from ministries with programs and services that support Aboriginal women and families: Aboriginal Relations; Culture; Education; Enterprise and Advanced Education; Health; Human Services; and Justice and Solicitor General.
- These ministries will work together to address the issues and ideas the councils raise.
“This council opens the door for First Nations women to bring our stories and experiences forward to government, government agencies and community stakeholders. It gives us a conduit to voice our concerns and our solutions, to overcoming the social and economic barriers that we face as First Nations women.”
“The women who make up the Metis Women’s Economic Security Council are strong individuals who are at the heart of their communities, and care deeply about the issues facing women. The council is an excellent forum for the voice of Metis women to be present and to be heard by decision makers.”
Under the Building Alberta Plan, our government is investing in families and communities, living within our means, and opening new markets for Alberta's resources to ensure we're able to fund the services Albertans told us matter most to them. We will continue to deliver the responsible change Albertans voted for.
Related information
Members of First Nations Women’s Economic Security Council (pdf)
Members of Metis Women’s Economic Security Council (pdf)
Multimedia
Watch on YouTube: Aboriginal women's initiative news conference