Aboriginal Woman In Business

We recently made a list of all businesses in Listuguj and we were pleasantly surprised that there was quite a number of women heading these businesses. Some of the businesses include: Grocery Stores, Delivery Service, Bus Transportation, Estetics, and Craft Stores. Additionally, many Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government Departments are headed by women. It's just amazing the incredible role our Mi'gmaq Women have taken in Listuguj! Of course I include myself on that list, along with the other ladies in this course and the Bachelor of Education Program.

The class lecture several weeks ago indicated barriers women face in business and one of them being education. I believe it to be true that generally women have more education than men who are in business. I see this in my community, in the courses, workshops, professional development and meetings have higher participation rates than our male counterparts. Yet the men earn more money, and some women make the same as men, but women are working harder and have more responsibility. Women must prove themselves more than their male counterparts.

One woman, I feel, who has contributed to Listuguj's growth and development is Brenda Gideon-Miller. Mrs. Gideon-Miller was a Band Councillor and Band Manager prior to being elected the first female Chief. As Chief, she initiated the return of traditional pow wows, wabenaki confedercy and no tolerance with alcohol in the workplace, in community gatherings and in public events. She often spoke from the heart, and being a women, got emotional. She was often criticised for this. She worked, and continues to work hard to pursue aboriginal treaty rights, pressing the government and other businesses to adhere to the "duty to consult" and "accomodation". Since these environments are traditionally male-dominated, especially in the negotiating sector, she must face many of the barriers faced by aboriginal women in business. I am proud that she is at the helm of an organization that continually fights for our rights as Aboriginals and she hasn't given up in the face of adversity. She is a true leader and must be commended for her work!

Welugen Brenda!