Distinguished women honored

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Jane Woodward, MP Ethel Blondin-Andrew, Premier Ralph Klein, Colleen Klein and Muriel Stanley-Venne stand behind this year's Esquao Award recipients.

The third annual Esquao Awards banquet was held on May 16. The special event, hosted by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, pays tribute to women who have, and continue to, make a difference in Aboriginal life.

Three of this year's recipients have been involved with the Voice of Alberta Native Women's Society, an Aboriginal women's awareness association, which had its start over 20 years ago.

Esquao recipient Christine Daniels from Saddle Lake First Nations was a founding member of the Voice of Alberta Native Women's Society (VANWS) in 1967. Daniels was a integral part of the society and provided the groundwork for the leadership courses for Aboriginal women. Daniels has received Mayor Cavanaugh's Health & Welfare Award and the distinguished Premiers Excellence Award for her work which has inspired many community members.

Alice Steinhauer from Saddle Lake First Nation was the first president of the VANWS in 1967. Steinhauer earned her Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Alberta at age 48. She has contributed to her community through her teachings about Aboriginal culture and history. Steinhauer is a determined and dedicated preserver of Aboriginal women's history and teaches part-time at the Blue Quills School.

Rose Yellowfeet from the Blood reserve near Standoff was the first Vice-President of the VANWS. Yellowfeet is a strong advocate of healthy lifestyles. She has committed much of her time to the betterment of community through her work programs and services in the community. Yellowfeet assists other seniors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle by teaching proper exercise and nutrition. She is a positive role model to all.

Victoria Macdonald from Fort McKay received her award as a respected Elder in the community. She has lived a traditional lifestyle and passes her knowledge along to others. Macdonald saw the construction of the Syncrude plant next to her community and became involved in the many community meetings where her voice is still heard. Macdonald is sought out by the young and old, Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal, for her knowledge and wisdom.

Elsie Quintal from Lac La Biche is considered one of the best traditional teachers in that community by her students. She has been teaching traditional ways such as hide tanning for 20 years. Quintal is currently teaching at Alberta Vocational College in Lac La Biche. She is described by her students as a strong woman with a quiet sense of determination.