The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council has concluded two successful days of meetings in St. John’s on May 30 and 31. The goal of the Reconciliation Council is to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human security that impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
The meetings included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies and prayers. In addition, presentations were delivered on:
- Policing Transformation by the Department of Justice and Public Safety.
- NL Health Services on Strategies for Advancing Indigenous Health and Cultural Safety.
- Child Protection and Supportive Services by the Department of Children, Seniors, and Social Development.
- Indigenous Services Canada on Indigenous partnerships with Indigenous women and 2-spirit organizations, and family violence prevention.
Council Co-chair Odelle Pike also participated in the annual Pride flag raising ceremony at Confederation Building.
The Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council is just one example of the Provincial Government’s commitment to rectifying past wrongs and advancing a more equitable and inclusive future for all residents. It is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives and six Indigenous women representatives. There are three Co-Chairs: one appointed to represent government, and two Elders appointed by the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee.
The formation of the Reconciliation Council was a recommendation of the Hear Our Voices: MMIWG Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador report.
This action is a further commitment from the Provincial Government to work collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous Governments and Organizations to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
Quotes
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council amplifies the voices of Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, guides policy, and fosters meaningful change toward equality and justice in our communities. Their work is fostering positive change, advancing reconciliation, and building a more just and equitable future for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council was founded on a commitment by the Provincial Government to work closely with Indigenous women’s organizations to directly address barriers that cause harm for Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. This is a relationship based on mutual respect and trust.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Labrador Affairs and Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
“Reconciliation Council meetings serve as vital platforms for understanding, healing, and collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. The work of the Council in these initiatives is crucial, as it not only addresses the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous communities, but also actively contributes to violence prevention. By promoting cultural awareness, mutual respect, and community-led solutions, the Council helps to build safer, more inclusive environments where Indigenous peoples can thrive without fear of violence.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
“We are a diverse group with representatives from many organizations, so it is imperative to ensure that we have input and can provide information on what is happening in our respective communities, and what the reality is. It is also imperative that we ensure the programs and services that are being proposed and delivered are going to make a difference in our communities, and in the lives of the people we represent.”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
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National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence
Office of Women and Gender Equality
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