Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council Hold Productive Meetings in Stephenville

November 15, 2024

The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council has concluded two days of meetings (November 13 and 14) in Stephenville. 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.

Discussions took place on current reconciliation initiatives throughout the province, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, and the issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls. The meetings also included traditional Indigenous opening and closing ceremonies.

One of the highlights of the two days was a visit to Ne’ata’q Place, a new shelter in Stephenville, opened by the Newfoundland Aboriginal Women’s Network, which will provide a safe and supportive environment for Indigenous women and children affected by family violence.

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 continue to work collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous Governments and Organizations to prevent violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

The Reconciliation Council is composed of 11 members, including five Provincial Government representatives (from Executive Council, Children, Seniors and Social Development, Health and Community Service, and Justice and Public Safety), 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.

Quotes
“The Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council brings together voices that have endured, wisdom that has persisted, and resilience that empowers. By honouring our Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals’ experiences and perspectives, we are making positive strides to prevent violence in our communities, while creating a path forward toward justice, healing, and reconciliation.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

“The collaborative efforts of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council deserve recognition. It highlights the critical importance of addressing gender-based violence as a fundamental issue for societal progress and equality.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation

“As we continue our work on reconciliation, we are trying to create a future where violence in any form has no place. As we stand together, we are committed to end gender-based violence and work towards a world where respect and equality are rights of all people.”
Odelle Pike
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council

“I am happy there is more emphasis being put on intimate partner violence, but I am sad that we have to deal with such tough issues. I hope the work we are doing will make a difference in the lives of women and children.”
Charlotte Wolfrey
Elder Co-Chair, Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council

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Learn more
Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council to be Established to Support Efforts Related to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ People

National Action Plan on Gender-Based Violence

Hear Our Voices Report

Office of Women and Gender Equality

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