Message from Beverley Jacobs

Ottawa, ON (May 25, 2007) – On behalf of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, it is my pleasure to welcome all participants to the National Aboriginal Women’s Summit (NAWS).

This historic event will take place in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador on Wednesday June 20th to Friday June 22nd. Not only is this a unique opportunity to bring Aboriginal women together from coast to coast to coast, it is an opportunity to bring together our collective minds to discuss the needs of Aboriginal women in our communities, identify solutions and plan for future action. Equally important is forging a long-term partnership with governments.

Canadians need to understand that governments are acting responsibly by participating in this Summit to address the crisis facing Aboriginal women. It must be made aware to the public that many of the issues of violence, homelessness and extreme poverty are the result of the detrimental impacts of colonization.

I want to acknowledge the Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Danny Williams who has taken up the challenge to address these critical issues. During the First Ministers' Meeting on Aboriginal issues in Kelowna, Premier Williams heard my request to host a summit dedicated to Aboriginal women issues. Last summer, during the Council of the Federation meeting in Corner Brook, Premier Williams stepped up to the plate and announced that his government would indeed, host a summit. For that, we thank him for making a commitment to host this Summit.

Now it is up to the Aboriginal women to grab this opportunity to set the wheels in motion by giving clear, concrete solutions to governments in an urgent "Call to Action."

Nia:wen (Thank you),