THUNDER BAY – Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Stan Beardy and Deputy Grand Chief Mike Metatawabin congratulated the newly elected NAN Women’s Council, which serves as the voice to support NAN women and families, as they work to achieve and maintain healthy lives in all 49 NAN First Nations.
Elections were held during the two-day forum March 10-11, 2012, in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
The newly elected NAN Women’s Council consist of:
EAST
Jackie Fletcher, Missanabie Cree First Nation
Rebecca Friday, Kashechewan First Nation
Lillian Hookimaw, Attawapiskat First Nation
Skylene Metatawabin, Fort Albany First Nation
WEST
Lisa Beardy, Muskrat Dam First Nation
Chief Lorraine Crane, Slate Falls First Nation
Annie Oskineegish, Nibinamik First Nation
Beulah Wabasse, Webequie First Nation
OSKAATISAK YOUTH APPOINTMENT
Karla Kakagamic, Keewaywin First Nation
“These women embody the integrity and strength of women in NAN First Nation communities,” said Deputy Grand Chief Metatawabin. “I congratulate the newly elected Women’s Council and wish them well as they continue to work on behalf of NAN women and their families.”
“I am pleased to see that the women of NAN have a process in place to determine who they would like to advocate on their behalf. It’s important that a democratic process occurs to ensure all voices are heard. This is women in leadership taking place. It is necessary and good to see,” said Grand Chief Beardy.
The NAN Women’s Council will strive to empower the women of NAN communities by:
- ensuring they have ways to express their concerns;
- being the voice of the women of NAN communities at a political level taking their concerns to the NAN Chiefs;
- lobbying/advocating on behalf of the service agencies that empower these women so they can deliver vital programs/activities;
- advocating for additional funding, resources and further support;
- striving to re-enforce traditional role of women as counsel;
- being the women’s voice to NAN Chiefs.