Released on October 27, 1998
Joanne Crofford, minister responsible for the Status of Women, today
recognized the accomplishments of the Indian and Metis Girls Exploring
Trades and Technology Committee (IMGETT) at the official launch of the
"Choosing the Beat of Her Own Drum" education kit.
"This education kit is designed to encourage young Indian and Metis
women to consider careers in science, trades and technologies,"
Crofford said. "The kit uses culturally relevant educational
materials to introduce trade and technology skills. It incorporates
the historical and cultural backgrounds of Aboriginal people and
creates a link to related trade and technology occupations.
"Throughout history, career opportunities have not always been the
same for women as for men. Society continues to dictate what
behaviors are acceptable and what behaviors are unacceptable for each
gender. This project encourages young women to choose careers in
whatever field of employment that interests them."
The education kit, "Choosing the Beat of Her Own Drum", contains a
poster, video and lesson plans. The poster presents various lively
images of young women from graduation day to working in different
trades and technologies. The video features Aboriginal women who are
pursuing careers in these fields; women speak of their work and
display pride in their independence as well as a commitment to family
and community. The lesson plans, targeted at Grade 7 to 9 students,
provide culturally relevant education concerning skills, knowledge and
career options.
"This educational kit has been a long time in the making", IMGETT
chairperson Shirley Boucher explained. "Without the assistance
and support of so many people, this project would not have been
possible. Our job now is to make this resource available to
those who can benefit most from it by distributing the kit to the
appropriate Saskatchewan schools."
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For more information, contact:
Shirley Boucher Gail Quinney
IMGETT Committee Women's Secretariat
Regina Regina
Phone: (306) 787-7819 Phone: (306) 787-2340
1-800-667-7730