Government of Canada acknowledges the contribution of Aboriginal women in Prince Edward Island
LENNOX ISLAND, March 2, 2004 -- The Honourable Joe McGuire, Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and Member of Parliament (Egmont) today announced support for two projects of the Aboriginal Women's Association of P.E.I., on behalf of the Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage. The projects being supported acknowledge the important achievements of Aboriginal women and help Aboriginal youth understand the effects of violence in their lives."The Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that Aboriginal Canadians participate fully in all aspects of our country's dynamic society," said Minister McGuire. "By establishing partnerships with Aboriginal groups in Prince Edward Island, we are promoting the important contributions of Aboriginal individuals to our national heritage."
"Aboriginal women have played a major role in the building of our country and it is important to highlight their accomplishments and to share these with all Canadians," added Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "I am pleased that the Government of Canada recognizes the work done by the Aboriginal Women's Association of P.E.I. and I wish the group much success with their activities."
The funding of $12,975 will allow the Aboriginal Women's Association of P.E.I. to carry out two projects in the coming year. For the "Aboriginal Women Ñ Leaders Among Us" project, the association will hold workshops to acknowledge the accomplishments of Aboriginal women within their families, their communities, and the province. The second project, "Lives of Hope and Healing," will raise awareness among Aboriginal youth of the effects of violence within their lives while encouraging them to build healthy and respectful relationships.
Financial assistance is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through its Aboriginal Women's Program. 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, both 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.
Funding for this project was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
[ Media Room ]
