The Objectives of the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women

IAAW is a vital resource for the Aboriginal community and the general public.

Our Objectives are:

1. To develop and deliver support services to build the individual capacity of Aboriginal women, their families and communities.

2. To achieve “Social Justice” for Aboriginal women by:

• Researching and developing resource materials,
• Identifying opportunities to participate in policy development and decision making with the municipal, provincial, federal governments
• Challenge and eradicate discrimination of Aboriginal women.

3. Recognize and respect Aboriginal women through celebrating their strengths and achievements.

4. To create an Aboriginal Women’s Centre in collaboration with other partners to increase the skills and abilities of Aboriginal Women.

5. To establish a social enterprise facility that provides Aboriginal women the opportunity to become self-sufficient.

6. To establish, develop and deliver educational programs and services that promote positive relationships.

7. With guidance from all our Elders, recognize and respect the spiritual and the sacred nature of the role of women within Aboriginal culture and traditions.

8. To build collaborative relationships with like-minded organizations to advance Aboriginal Women’s issues.

9. To establish a forum and network for Aboriginal women to exchange information and experiences.

Structure Includes:

• Central Office Staff
• Circle of Honour Elders
• Provincial Board of Directors
• 14 Chapters in Aboriginal Communities across Alberta
• Patron— Dr. Colleen Klein
• Honourary Ambassador Senator Thelma Chalifoux