Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to announce that the Status of Women Council has named the recipients of the 2010 Wise Women Awards.
This is a prestigious award. The Status of Women Council of the NWT has been honouring northern women since 1992 for their wisdom, strength and accomplishments and particularly in working to make our communities better and stronger for all.
Mr. Speaker, these women are all known for their ability to stand with dignity no matter what hardships life has handed them.
They are known for fighting for the disadvantaged and downtrodden. They are known for thinking of others and offering a helping hand. They don’t take no for an answer, as many of my colleagues here can attest to. And, most importantly, they know how to laugh.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to announce the recipients of the Wise Women Awards of the NWT for 2010:
Sister Faye Tremblay for the Beaufort-Delta region. Sister Tremblay arrived in Tuktoyaktuk in October 2005 and took the community by storm with her wisdom, energy and commitment to people of all ages and abilities.
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Gina Dolphus of Deline from the Sahtu region. Gina is known as a counsellor, community advocate, and her work to enhance the place of traditional arts and crafts. She is often sought out for her input and wisdom.
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Lyda Fuller of Yellowknife for the North Slave region. Lyda has expanded the understanding of the cost of family violence to our society, expanded shelter services and developed transition housing for families starting over.
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Elaine Lamalice of the Hay River Reserve for the Deh Cho region. Elaine offers counselling and teachings on healthy living and encouraging young people to move away from making bad choices.
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Rosa Lafferty of Fort Resolution for the South Slave region. Rosa is admired for her kindness, that she lives by example and encourages young women to keep their tradition and culture and for her world-renowned sewing. She shows young women that you can do it all.
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Mr. Speaker, the ceremony presentation will be taking place at noon in the Great Hall on Monday, March 8, 2010. I would ask the Members of this House to join us in congratulating the recipients of the 2010 Wise Women Awards at this celebration on Monday. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
