The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council met in Gander on September 1-2 to discuss priorities affecting Indigenous women, families and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, with a focus on advancing reconciliation, addressing poverty and exploring the social impacts of resource development.
Throughout the two-day meeting, Reconciliation Council members reviewed progress on the implementation of the 196 recommendations contained in the Hear Our Voices report and discussed ongoing efforts to address systemic barriers facing Indigenous women and girls.
On the first day, there was significant discussion regarding the social impacts of resource development and extraction projects on Indigenous communities. Discussions also explored the impacts of implementing gender equity, diversity and inclusion plans (GEDIPs) and environmental assessment processes.
Reconciliation Council members also heard from 12 Neighbours, a Fredericton, New Brunswick-based community initiative that combines housing, recovery support, and employment opportunities to help individuals transition out of poverty and homelessness.
The presentation highlighted innovative approaches to supportive housing and community development. The organization’s “housing first” model provides permanent housing alongside wraparound supports and pathways to employment.
On the second day of the meeting, officials from the Department of Social Supports and Well-Being presented on the province’s Poverty Reduction Strategy and engaged council members in discussions on barriers contributing to poverty among Indigenous peoples. The session provided an opportunity for members to share perspectives on improving access to supports and services and ensuring poverty reduction initiatives reflect the unique experiences and needs of Indigenous women, families and communities.
Additionally, the meeting featured an Emerging Issues Panel with representatives from:
- Cara Transition House
- Gander Women’s Centre
- Status of Women Central
- Roads to End Violence
Panel participants shared insights on emerging issues affecting women and families in the region, including gender-based violence prevention, housing, poverty, community supports and opportunities for collaboration.
Established in 2022, the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council supports efforts related to missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people. The Reconciliation Council was proposed by the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Steering Committee as a foundational component of their report, Hear Our Voices: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Policy Recommendations of the First Women of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Reconciliation Council continues to play an important role in advancing reconciliation and supporting policy discussions that reflect the voices and experiences of Indigenous women and girls throughout the province.
Quotes
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council continues to play a vital role in ensuring the voices, experiences and priorities of Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people help shape government policies and programs. By bringing together leading senior Indigenous women, community organizations and government partners, we are strengthening collaboration and identifying meaningful actions that support safer, healthier and more prosperous futures for Indigenous women, families and communities throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”
Honourable Lela Evans
Minister of Women and Gender Equality
Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
“Each meeting of the Reconciliation Council reminds us that reconciliation is an ongoing journey built on listening, respect, trust and action. At our 11th meeting, we continued to have important conversations about the priorities of Indigenous women and communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. I am encouraged by the progress we are making, but we know there is still much work ahead. Our responsibility is to ensure that the voices shared around this table lead to meaningful change that can be seen and felt in our communities.”
Dr. Elder Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
“Healing begins when we hear each other. We know we are being heard when there is a difference in the status quo and policies change and reflect the feedback we are giving. Through the Reconciliation Council, we have opportunities to provide feedback and recommendations on government programs and strategies. My hope is that we can make a difference.”
Elder Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council
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Learn more
National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence
Office of Women and Gender Equality
Office of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation
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