January 29, 2015
Manitoba Government Announces New Appointments to Women's Advisory Council
– – –Council Advises Government on Positive Ways to Empower Women: Minister Irvin-Ross
Family Services Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, minister responsible for the status of women, today announced the appointment of council chair and seven new members to the Manitoba Women's Advisory Council. This year marks the council’s 35th anniversary of advising the government on women's issues and legislative policy affecting women.
“The Manitoba government seeks informed advice, experience and expertise from a wide range of women in our communities on important issues such as fair representation of women on boards, Manitoba’s sexual assault prevention strategy and violence against women,”said Minister Irvin-Ross. “We are proud to announce the appointment of council chair, Nadia Kidwai. She also serves as program co-ordinator for Next Up Winnipeg, a youth leadership program and is a co-chair for the Institute for International Women’s Rights – Manitoba,” the minister said.
In addition, the board will be welcomingDr. Romona Goomansingh, Jamie Skinner, Susan Hayward, Susie Marie Secord, Barb Desjardins, Jenna Wirchand Brielle Beardy.
Minister Irvin-Ross noted the council has been involved in a number of initiatives that promote positive reinforcement and encouragement for girls and women of all ages. Most recently the council published a gender-based analysis document titled Promote Positive Images of Women: Responsible Marketing and Media, as a call to action for individuals and groups to ensure media images of women are positive and empowering. This document is available at: www.gov.mb.ca/msw/responsible_media.html.
“I would like to thank the new members for taking on these important roles and I am sure they will provide a valuable service,” said Minister Irvin-Ross. “I would also like to express my best wishes and gratitude to the past council members for their years of work and dedication.”
The council is an arm’s-length body responsible for maintaining contact with women in the community and presenting their concerns to government to ensure provincewide representation, council members are chosen to reflect Manitoba’s geographic and cultural diversity.
- 30 -