Iaaw - Institute For The Advancement Of Aboriginal Women

The Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW) is a provincial non-profit organization that recognizes the role, value, and achievements of Aboriginal women and works toward the empowerment and success of women and young women.

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.