WUNRN

http://www.wunrn.com

Nobel Women's Initiative - http://nobelwomensinitiative.org/2013/10/breaking-ground-report/?ref=22300

CANADA - WOMEN, OIL & CLIMATE CHANGE - ALBERTA & BRITISH COLUMBIA - WOMEN STRUGGLE TO PROTECT THEIR LAND, COMMUNITIES

Direct Link to Full 44-Page 2013 Report:

http://nobelwomensinitiative.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Breaking-Ground.pdf?ref=22300

Computer can increase type size for easier reading.

The purpose of our trip was to meet with grassroots women leaders as well as government and industry officials to uncover the interrelated impacts of oil sands industry expansion on women, their communities and the environment. As delegation leader Jody Williams notes, little has been done to document the unique experiences of women affected by oil sands developments:

Invited by women in affected communities, the Nobel Women’s Initiative delegation drew from and built upon the extensive knowledge and networks that women leaders have established throughout the region. By gathering, documenting and sharing the experiences of those most directly affected and engaged in the struggle to protect their land and communities, the Nobel Women’s Initiative aims to amplify their local efforts. We hope to focus Canadian and international attention on their concerns about the potential consequences of further oil sands development for current and future generations.

Several women we spoke with are direct descendants of First Nations people who survived Canada’s dark residential school era, when the government attempted to systematically erase native culture and language. For those recovering from decades of institutional abuse, neglect and racism, much of what is happening around oil sands industry expansion stirs up memories of colonial land appropriation and cultural  assimilation. In non-Aboriginal communities, women also came out in force to express their concerns over the proliferation of oil sands developments. Many have joined local grassroots organizations to channel their concerns. From mothers and environmentalists to artists and scientists, the women we met are employing powerful and creative strategies in their struggle to be heard despite enormous pressure from both government and industry to stay silent. They were eager to speak out about the impact oil sands industry expansion is having.

This report testifies to the groundbreaking work they are doing to defend their environment, communities and values.

________________________________________________________