Message from

Premier Roland

On behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories, I am honoured to welcome participants to the second National Aboriginal Woman’s Summit (NAWS) to be held in Yellowknife from July 29-31, 2008.  This conference is co-hosted with the Native Women’s Association of Canada and supported by the Government of Canada cooperatively with National Women’s advisory groups.

This Summit is a tremendous opportunity to build on the recommendations created at last year’s gathering.  Aboriginal women make up a quarter of the population of the NWT and the NAWS theme ‘strong women, strong communities’ could not be more fitting for the North.  Aboriginal women are the backbone of the NWT and through their wisdom and experience contribute to the success of each of our communities.

The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to working with Federal and Aboriginal governments, along side regional organizations to spearhead critical issues facing Aboriginal women across Canada.  Through collaboration at events like the National Aboriginal Women’s Summit we can address and hopefully move forward with solutions to the problems facing Aboriginal women.

While in Yellowknife, I hope you will take time to experience the beautiful scenery and enjoy our famous Northern hospitality.  I look forward to meeting you at the Summit and to working to ensure a bright, healthy and prosperous future for Aboriginal women now and in generations to come.

Sincerely,

Floyd K. Roland, Premier of the Northwest Territories