Achievements of women recognized by awards

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It was a night for Aboriginal women to shine at the Esquao Awards held on May 6.

Many Aboriginal women were celebrated, including this year's Circle of Honor recipient, Ethel Blondin-Andrew.

Organized by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW), the Esquao Awards pay tribute to the achievements of Aboriginal women in such categories as performing arts, business, community involvement, education, health and medicine, culture, leadership, literature and visual arts.

"I think she's (Blondin-Andrew) terrific. Very, very concerned about women," said Muriel Stanley Venne, president and founder of the IAAW.

In 1988 Blondin-Andrew was the first Aboriginal woman elected to the House of Commons. The MP for the Western Arctic was also appointed to the Cabinet as the Secretary of State (Children and Youth) and is currently the Minister of State (Children and Youth).

"I was very humbled and I was very honored. I felt like I have an opportunity already that honors me, to be able to work for my people," said Blondin-Andrew. "I feel they (IAAW) give a voice to people who don't have a voice and they also empower their people by honoring them. Muriel has a never-ending thirst to make sure that our people are treated with dignity and respect."

Businessman Dave Tuccaro and Alberta MLA Pearl Calahasen hosted the event, with entertainment from many Aboriginal artists, including Juno award winner Chester Knight, comedian and motivational speaker Opie Oppenheim and hip-hop group War Party.

"When we recognize Aboriginal women for the achievements they've made, despite all odds, it's absolutely incredible," said Calahasen. "I think it's just incredible for her (Blondin-Andrew) to receive that because she's really done a lot for youth and for Aboriginal people and Aboriginal women."

Some of the other award winners included Gerri Manyfingers, Peggy Roberts, Theresa Wildcat and Cynthia Smallboy.

"I was overwhelmed. It's a very, very good feeling," said Wildcat, the lifetime achievement award recipient. "In a community, you don't do it alone. Many people are there to help you-your family, your friends, the leaders; they work hard. It's very uplifting." Wildcat was the first woman councillor for Ermineskin Cree Nation.

"It's amazing; so well put together, so beautiful," said Smallboy of the awards ceremony. "It's definitely about time that we celebrate our women. I think it's great." Smallboy was the recipient in the performing arts category, and is member of War Party.

The IAAW has honored more than 180 women since the Esquao Awards inception in 1995. Previous recipients of their most prestigious award, the Circle of Honor, include Senator Thelma Chalifoux and Colleen Klein.