Released on March 8, 2017
Each year since 1975, March 8 has been designated by the United Nations as International Women’s Day. This day is an opportunity to recognize Saskatchewan women and girls who are leaders and role models in their communities. “Strength and Resilience of Indigenous Women in Saskatchewan” is the provincial theme for International Women’s Day this year.
“In Saskatchewan, International Women’s Day is a way to celebrate women and girls who are leaders and role models in Saskatchewan communities,” Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Tina Beaudry-Mellor said. “This year, we celebrate the Indigenous women and girls who are leaders and trailblazers. These women are helping to foster a new generation of young Indigenous female leaders by being role models they can see and aspire to be.”
Saskatchewan is home to many current and emerging Indigenous women exhibiting resilience and strength as community leaders. A few of note include:
- Dr. Shauneen Pete, an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Regina, is a First Nations educator, professional storyteller, and public speaker.
- Claire Belanger-Parker and Shannon Loutitt are co-founders of the International Indigenous Speakers Bureau, an organization working toward sharing stories from Indigenous people from Canada and beyond.
- Devon Fiddler, Indigenous entrepreneur and founder of SheNative, a handbag and accessories company with a focus on empowering Indigenous women and girls through community development and social growth.
- Shana Pasapa, mixed martial artist and entrepreneur, is the founder of Power Our Women (POW), a self-defence program to help instil confidence and attitude in women and girls.
The Status of Women Office (SWO) in the Ministry of Social Services is providing funding support to enable 91 eligible community-based women’s organizations to host events in Saskatchewan communities throughout the month of March through an International Women’s Day Grant program. A complete list of the events being sponsored is available on the Status of Women website at http://saskatchewan.ca/swo.
“Activities marking the day are a celebration of women’s achievements and help to raise public awareness of women’s equality,” Beaudry-Mellor said. “Our government is pleased to champion and facilitate community-based women’s organizations in achieving these goals.”
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For more information, contact:
Leya Moore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-3610
Email: leya.moore@gov.sk.ca