Structure
- Established in 1995 as a non-profit society in the Province of Alberta
- Board of Directors composed of Aboriginal Women
- Circle of Honour Elders Council from all parts of Alberta.
- Chapters: Athabasca, Bonnyville, Calgary, Calling Lake, Edmonton
Edson, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, Gunn, Hinton, Lac La Biche, Parkland (Spruce Grove), Red Deer, St. Paul, Slave Lake, Stand Off. - Receives only project-based funding
- Patron – Dr. Colleen Klein
- Honourary Ambassador – Honourable Senator Dr. Thelma Chalifoux
Advocacy
- Provides information on resources to document violations or discrimination.
- Works in cooperation with other agencies to provide assistance to Aboriginal Women and their families.
- Since 1999, over 320 Aboriginal Women have contacted the IAAW for assistance.
Human Rights
- Investigate human rights violations
- Established the Aboriginal Human Rights Commission
- Work cooperatively with the Alberta Human Rights Commission and Canadian Human Rights Commissions
- Host conferences and workshops to inform Aboriginal Women and Youth of their Human Rights
- Provide information on Human Rights through the “Rights Path – Alberta” and “It Takes Courage” youth booklet
- Attend United Nations consultation processes on the status of Human Rights for Aboriginal Peoples in Canada
- Supports the sharing of information to other women in the world.
Justice
- Supports and collaborates with other organizations to assist women in moving from situations involving violence to creating safe and healthy environments.
- Hosts the Social Justice Award every two years which recognizes individuals who have contributed to the awareness of the general public on judicial issues for Aboriginal Women
Promotion
- Annual Esquao Awards promotes the achievements and advances of Aboriginal Women in Alberta
- Publications and materials that portray the past and present accomplishments of Alberta’s Aboriginal Women
- Esquao newsletter provides information to Aboriginal Women throughout Alberta
Future Goals
- Establish the Esquao Centre which will provide services and a supportive environment to assist Aboriginal Women in re-integrating back into the community, build their skills and abilities to provide a better chance at success.
- Establish a network and contacts with Aboriginal Women throughout Alberta
- Obtain stable, secure funding.
