PSAC North REVP Lorraine Rousseau attended Nunavut Employees Union’s first ever Women’s Conference in Iqaluit (December 4- 6). The theme was “Women in Action,” bringing women delegates together from across Nunavut to discuss issues that matter to them and their communities at work and beyond.
Alassua Hanson and Eemalie Kolola opened the conference with lighting of the Quliq and a beautiful performance: throat singing and drumming. Delegates heard from guest speakers: Commissioner of Nunavut Honourable Eva Aariak, Director of Arctic Inspiration Darlene Nuqingaq, and Deputy Minister Family Services Yvonne Niego.
Participants took part in the vigil to honour victims and stand togetheragainst gender-based violence on December 6, National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
“Thank you, NEU for providing safe space for women in the union. I’m grateful to all participants and guest speakers who bravely shared their knowledge and wisdom. You left me inspired. You are women in action, and together, we are stronger,” says PSAC North REVP Lorraine Rousseau.
Participants shared important messages with us in video and audio following the conference.
Meeka Kiguktak: “Teach children the skills to protect themselves.”
Sharon Nowlan: “I know that if I disappear, someone is going to look for me and I want every woman and girl to feel that way.”