February 17, 2012 - Mr. Speaker, International Women's Day on March 8th is a global day of celebration to honour women's advancement towards equality in all areas of life.
In the Northwest Territories, the Status of Women Council of the Northwest Territories celebrates International Women’s Day by hosting the Wise Women Awards and celebrating the winners with the Bread and Roses Luncheon in the Great Hall of our Assembly. This year, is the 20th anniversary of the Wise Women Awards.
These women are role models in their communities and provide volunteer, counselling and caregiver service to others. The awards recognize their advocacy work and other efforts to improve the status of women in the Northwest Territories.
It is my great pleasure to announce recipients of the Wise Women Awards for 2012:
- Beaufort Delta – Greta Sittichinli
- Sahtu – Ethel Blondin-Andrew
- Dehcho – Margaret Vandal
- South Slave – Therese (Dollie) Simon
- North Slave/Tlicho – Marsha Argue
The Council is celebrating this milestone with the publication of a booklet honouring present and past recipients. With this year’s recipients, 93 women have been awarded the Wise Women designation since 1992.
Mr. Speaker, I extend this Assembly’s congratulations to the recipients and our appreciation for their lifetime works for the betterment of families and Northern communities.
Thank you. Mr. Speaker.