National Women’s Conference Shines Spotlight on Newfoundland and Labrador

Highlighting the rise of women in leadership positions and emerging opportunities for young women in Newfoundland and Labrador and across Canada, the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, helped open the Canadian Federation of University Women’s (CFUW) annual conference last night.

“I am extremely pleased that the Canadian Federation of University Women has selected St. John’s as the venue for its annual conference,” said Minister Sullivan. “Through a very comprehensive agenda that will allow for a free-flow of discussion, it is a conference that will benefit all delegates. It comes at an opportune time as women throughout Canada, and in particular Newfoundland and Labrador, are excelling in their careers and assuming leadership positions at the highest of levels. The fact that Newfoundland and Labrador now has its first female Premier, the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, speaks to the new ground that women in this province are breaking.”

The theme of this year’s event is Wind in our Sails: Women at the Helm and includes such topics as women’s influence on the law, cultural heritage, aboriginal communities, research, and industry. Women leaders from throughout Newfoundland and Labrador will share their own experiences.

“By celebrating the successes and experiences of women, we are collectively taking the opportunity to ensure that the progress and advancement of women continues,” said Minister Sullivan. “I have every confidence that conference delegates will find it beneficial and eye-opening. As a government, we will learn from the stories that will be shared as we are constantly looking to improve the status of women in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

The CFUW’s annual conference is taking place at the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland from August 5 to 6. The annual conference previously took place in St. John’s in 1996.

CFUW is a voluntary, non-profit, self-funded, non-partisan, non-governmental organization of close to 10,000 graduate women, students and associate members in 112 clubs in Canada who advocate for equality for women and girls. It seeks to improve access to education for women, for peace, justice, human rights and to support programs that improve the environment. The organization also has special consultative status with the United Nations.

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2011 08 05             9:35 a.m.