April 9,2016

I noticed that we did not have a group photo of our presenters.

L-R Kelly-Ann Stevenson (NCWC 1st VP) Sarah Gazan & Jackie Walker(Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre) Lore Mirwaldt (Mirwaldt, Gray, Poudrier Law) Margaret MacKinnon (Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre) and Cora Morgan (Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs)

There have been many suggestions for us to repeat this presentation - hopefully we will have that opportunity soon.

On April 7 the Canadian Government released the news - that Canada elected to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women. 

A seat on the Commission gives Canada a stronger voice in advancing the rights of women and girls. 

Canada has been elected to be part of the governing body that sets priorities for the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (UNCSW). By gaining a seat, Canada will be at the table to shape the Commission’s work to advance the rights of women and girls around the world. 

The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women, announced at the sixtieth UNCSW that Canada would seek a seat as a key part of its commitment to advance gender equality, both at home and abroad.

Lessons from the Heart Indigenous Women Bringing Our Children Home

Manitoba leads the Western World in the removal of Indigenous children from their families.

Lessons From the Heart Indigenous Women are leading the way by challenging existing systems using Indigenous knowledge, laws, traditions and belief systems to create positive change.

L-R Sarah Gazan from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre,  Inc.,  ICW Recording Secretary Nebiye Isin Atala (Turkey), International Council of Women (ICW) President Jung-sook Kim (Korea), NCWC 1st Vice President Kelly-Ann Stevenson  and Jackie Walker from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre

L-R NCWC Vice President Jeanette Logan , International Council of Women (ICW) President Jung-sook Kim (Korea), NCWC 1st Vice President Kelly-Ann Stevenson and ICW Recording Secretary Nebiye Isin Atala (Turkey). 

Speaker on Asian Women and sexual exploitation and violence

Speaker on Asian Women and sexual exploitation and violence

This woman from Iran exposed 2 myths of sexual violence:

1. It's the woman's fault

2. Don't talk about it

It's time to end these myths. It's never our fault and it's okay to talk about it.

Very powerful speaker on war and sexual violence as a weapon

This man from Bolivia spoke about how men are oppressed by societal gender roles. How men are hurt by those roles. Men need a safe place as well to tell their stories.

Mozambique women and girls on domestic violence. Interesting seminar which introduced climate change having created natural disasters that sled to social disorganization and domestic violence. Aftermath of natural disasters are dangerous for women and children due to men being prioritized to receive help. Safety of women is at risk.

 This man is involved in a men's movement in Mozambique begun in 2009. They work with men and boys to change mentalities and attitudes towards women in order to reduce domestic violence.

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Here are some highlights of some of the parallel events that were attend during the second week.

The morning briefing on March 23 discussed the importance and campaign to elect a Woman UN Secretary-General. This was later followed by a parallel event.

AT LAST an update

Hello

First I must say how sorry I am that I was not able to post more during the CSW – I had limited internet connection at my hotel and then upon my return back to Winnipeg I have been taking care of a family matter that required my full attention.

What an exciting experience to attend the CSW60 – it took me while to understand when where and to what attend. I must say attending the morning briefings and the regional caucuses is a must. Trying to pick which parallel event to attend is not an easy decision.

One of highlights of my short week was the great honour I had be part of the presentation by the Council of Women of Winnipeg / National Council of Women of Canada. Sponosored by Mirwaldt, Gray, Poudrier Law, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre Inc., and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs. In attendance at our presentation was our International Council of Women President Jung-sook Kim (Korea) and Recording Sectary Nebiye Isin Atala (Turkey).

I had the wonderful opportunity to reconnect with Dr. Dawn Harvard – Native Women’s Association of Canada and making new friends and connections with the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Centre – Ms Paula Julian (Montana USA) and Te Whare Tiaka Wahine Refuge – Ms Caroline Herewini (New Zealand) and many more.

I cannot wait till next year and I hope to see you there! 

In the next few entries will find some highlights and some photos from some of the presentations that I and others had attended. 

Kelly-Ann Stevenson 

1st VP NCWC 

Some Final Thoughts on the Agreed Conclusions

In the end, negotiations were tough, but constructive (overall, we negotiated for roughly 75 hours in the plenary): Delegates developed a practical, implementation-focused text that produced some specific new language on pressing topics. One of the particularly strong points of the text is the language on the participation of civil society and the enabling environment needed for the achievement of gender equality. Hopefully, the agreed conclusions of this first CSW after the adoption of the 2030 Agenda will serve as a reference document in other UN fora and as a guide for implementation on the ground.

See Unedited Version here.  Agreed Conclusions

NCWC VP Environment Jeannette Logan at CSW NGO 60 in New York
March 24, 2016

As NCWC's representative on the North American/European Caucus, I was invited to a Core group meeting to “observe” their deliberations. This small group leads the organization of the 3 open Caucus meetings to discuss and promote our input to the negotiations.

By Mar 24, we hope to have the final text of the Agreed Conclusions which represent the work accomplished here at CSW 60.

Concerns raised: word “abolutionist” in Europe today refers to abolution of prostitution.
The wording “sexual and reproductive rights” appear unacceptable to certain European
countries.

Early, forced and child marriage clauses are controversial. Also definition of the 'family'.
Where NGO attendees have access to members of their countries' delegation they are
encouraged to lobby for inclusive, feminist friendly, unambiguous language.

Also we need to refer to the Treaties or other legal entities which already protect us by laws, not general words such as 'justice' and 'development.

Much to talk about to increase our understanding of the issues facing women in all parts of the world.

-- Jeannette Logan

2nd Posting by Jeannette Logan

NCWC VP Environment Jeannette Logan at CSW NGO 60 in New York
March 24, 2016

As NCWC's representative on the North American/European Caucus, I was invited to a Core group meeting to “observe” their deliberations. This small group leads the organization of the 3 open Caucus meetings to discuss and promote our input to the negotiations.

By Mar 24, we hope to have the final text of the Agreed Conclusions which represent the work accomplished here at CSW 60.

Concerns raised: word “abolutionist” in Europe today refers to abolution of prostitution.
The wording “sexual and reproductive rights” appear unacceptable to certain European
countries.

Early, forced and child marriage clauses are controversial. Also definition of the 'family'.
Where NGO attendees have access to members of their countries' delegation they are
encouraged to lobby for inclusive, feminist friendly, unambiguous language.

Also we need to refer to the Treaties or other legal entities which already protect us by laws, not general words such as 'justice' and 'development.

Much to talk about to increase our understanding of the issues facing women in all parts of the world.

-- Jeannette Logan

Report on Week 1, by Jeannette Logan

Hello everyone from Jeannette Logan in New York – very intense, stimulating week, meeting amazing women!

Consultation day highlights

UN Under-Secretary and Exec Director of UNWomen, Phumzile Mlabo-Ngcuka introduced the 17 Sustainable Development Goals where 13 have direct effect on Women. 

She emphasized SDG 17 on economics – critical to revisit fiscal plans and budgets. (Here's hoping for Canada's Mar 22 budget!)

Other points: new Youth CSW Conference on Mar 12-3; Ministerial talks on Gender Equality and Civil Rights; alliances of civil society (us) and private sector; Peace and Security; lower military budgets; Leave No One Behind program; and data to demonstrate the impact of investing in women.

Women of Distinction Awardee Bandana Rana spoke of her journey to activist in Nepal  since 1991. In 2009 the 1st World Conference for Women's Shelters was convened in Canada! She wants to see women working together to strengthen UNWomen.

Lakshmi Puri, UN Assistant -Secretary and Deputy Exec Dir, UNWomen calls this a moment of unprecedented opportunity so let's capitalize!  Time to integrate gender equality, innovate, invest in women for impact that is irreversible!

Because I am VP, Environment I chose Water and Climate Change discussion group.

Human Right to Safe Water, and to Sanitation were agreed in Dec /15.  Canada has not yet ratified.

Mar 14

Issues in Gender and WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene)

The SDG goals refer to “unique needs of girls and women”. For the fist time we were discussing MENSTRUATION and how this normal function is keeping girls away from school where private toilets, wash basins and disposal is unavailable. The subject of safe waste disposal from human defecation is largely unaddressed, ie. safe for human collectors and the environment. We need “human dignity for all”.

Nov 19 is World Toilet Day!

YOUNG WOMEN IN THE GLOBAL ECONOMY took centre stage that evening, sponsored by UKAid and Plan International UK. 

UK Minister for International Development spoke:

A recent McKinsey report on gender parity concluded: If every country was as good as the best country in the region, GDP would rise by 11%; if we had global gender parity, GDP up 24%! The panel included: 

Fiza Farhan of Pakistan, 1st women CEO, economist, entrepreneur etc. When you face a problem, is it a “stepping stone” or a “speed bump”?

Yamikani of Malawi started a youth advocacy group which changed the marriage law to 18 yr!

Youth need mentors and helpers.  We the elders need to step up.

Dr. Ligiero – Labour force participation has risen only 2% in last 20yrs! “Women's participation is not only a right, but the SMART thing to do.” Need to measure 'unpaid work”.

Youth delegates from Kenya and UK with WAGGGS – World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts. Youth needs financial literacy, and mentoring in Maths and Sciences.

Photos with ICW colleagues

 

by Jeannette Logan VP Environment

First Day of the Second Week

First day of the second week – Monday, March 21, 2016. Here are some highlights of some the parallel events attended by the NCWC delegation.

Empowering Women and Men to Prevent Violence and Promote Health together: New Developments in Gender Synchronized Approaches.

• Very interesting front-line approach to changing gender attitudes on roles in society. Results have been promising.

Women and Girls, HIV and Violence Preventing Infection
• Women from Argentina and Central America spoke how there is a need to continue to decrease the violence against women, girls and transgendered women. A review of how HIV education strategies.

Mental Health changes and the Menopause Transition
• The impact of depression on the role functioning and quality of life is comparable to that of serious chronic conditions. Depression is a major contributor to the global burden of disease.

No Limits for Girls
• This group uses the tools of re-evaluation counselling to support girls and women harmed by sexism and male domination. They work on changing public policy and attitudes on sexism

Pakistani woman talking about oppression of women by war

• Very powerful speaker on war and sexual violence as a weapon
• This woman from Iran exposed 2 myths of sexual violence: 1, It's the woman's fault 2. Don't talk about it
• It's time to end these myths. It's never our fault and it's okay to talk about it.

• • A man from Bolivia spoke about how men are oppressed by societal gender roles. How men are hurt by those roles. Men need a safe place as well to tell their stories.

• He spoke about societal roles and how it creates isolation for men and creates fertile ground for sexual violence.
• Pornography is a factor in sexual violence. He feels it must be wiped out. Having a daughter 4 years ago made him realize the prevalence of sexual violence in society


Storytelling and Conversation Circles : transformation and Engagement in Human Rights work-

• Engaging presentation about the role of women leaders in creating transformative change. Each woman on the panel shared their story about what drove them to become strong advocates for marginalized women and girls throughout the world.

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Attended Morning Briefing – with UN Women Executive Director Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka. Review and discussion of the sustainable development goals (SDG)

1st week wrapping up gearing up for 2nd week.

As the first week of CSW60 comes to an end and some NCWC delegates ( Alberta Johnson, Alexandra Shkandrij, Eden Friesen) leave - and we look forward to their reports and hopefully some pictures from their past week. A new group of NCWC delegates will be arriving and presenting during the second week.

NCWC Vice President Jeannette Logan has been there for the most exciting first week. During the first week our Prime Minister - Honourable Justin Trudeau and Ministers  Jody Wilson-Raybould, Patty Hajdu, Marie-Claude Bibeau, Carolyn Bennett were in attendance. Jeannette shared that she attended ICW (International Council of Women) event and met many other very interesting delegates from around the world. She also attended the a Panel discussion on Indigenous women and girls that was lead by a Canadian speaker. 

As I receive information from the delegates I will update and share on this blog. 

Kelly-Ann Stevenson
President Council of Women of Winnipeg
1st Vice President National Council of Women of Canada. 
  

CSW Opens for 2016!

 

The first group of NCWC delegates are in New York - Reports coming, but in the meantime watch the live broadcasts.

Monday, March 14th, the Commission on the Status of Women officially opens.

You can see it recorded on the UN Webcasts here:  http://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/csw/webcasts

Live and archived webcasts of key UN Women events will be provided throughout CSW 60.

--Mary Scott

Lessons From The Heart: Indigenous Women Bringing Our Children Home

This promises to be a very special event, as a number of women from Manitoba are attending the meetings of the CSW, as part of the National Council of Women of Canada's delegation -  and will share their story of taking action. Coming from the heart of Canada, and presenting on an important topic - Did you know that Manitoba leads the Western World in the removal of Indigenous children from their families?

Lessons from the Heart - with Indigenous women leading the way by challenging existing systems, using Indigenous knowledge, laws and traditions and belief systems to create positive change.

With Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation Family and Community Wellness Centre, Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Mirwaldt, Gray Poudrier LLP, and NCWC.

To download the poster, click here.

All are welcome to hear this powerful presentation on March 23rd, at 4:30 pm, at the Church Centre, (Room - Main Floor, The Chapel), 777 UN Plaza, corner of 44th and First Ave.

-- Mary Scott

Making Plans and Looking Ahead

Only 2 weeks to go and the 60th Meeting of the Commission on the Status of Women begins!

Are you ready??

A couple of things to look at now that might be helpful to make best use of your time:

• to review the agenda, and schedule of the formal meetings, check out here.
• to review the parallel events, with locations, topics and times, check out here.
• to read the draft Agreed Conclusions, check out here.
• to check out the Side Events (most of these you need to rsvp), check out here.
• NGO Advisories - A good place to check things like registration information, check out here.  

Please note everyone - the location has changed for registration - and the hours are now posted - see more here:

Coming up - the event not to be missed if you are there the second week. The National Council of Women of Canada will be hosting an event on MARCH 23RD, at 4:30 PM, at the Church Centre - Lessons from the Heart: Indigenous Women Bringing Our Children Home. 

-- Mary Scott

Getting Ready for the CSW

February 14th today, and about a month to go before the meetings of the Commission on the Status of Women begin - March 14 to March 24. What to do in getting ready - my own strategy is to do a lot of preparation so that when you get there, you do have some idea of what you really want to attend. It's so helpful that there is so much now on the web, so you can get a good idea of what is happening, when it's happening, and where it's happening. Here are a few things to consider:

• Prepare by bringing lots of business cards. 
• Pack casual clothes, good walking shoes, and be prepared for rain.
• WiFi is good at the UN, and free, so bring whatever you have, laptop, iphone, ipad.
• Start now by looking at the major sites - UN Women and the CSW NGO main page
• Check with the head of your delegation about where your expertise can help ie attending certain caucuses, such as peace, health, regional; communications; advocacy.
•  Take a look at the map to see where your hotel is, and where the UN buildings, and NGO events are taking place.
• One of the main purposes of the CSW is to come up with a document, called the Agreed Conclusions. It is now out, in draft form - a good idea to review, and see where it needs some work. Read it here.
• Find out who is on the Official Delegation for your country - they are a good way to influence the document.

You have a terrific opportunity to participate, and to learn, and possibly to shape the outcome of the CSW. A good motto for sure is to be prepared, and to learn from the women who have gone before.

The National Council of Women of Canada is looking forward to being there, and will be sharing some of what they will be doing at the CSW on this blog, so stay tuned!

Mary Scott

Welcome to the NCWC Blog for the upcoming meetings of the Commission on the Status of Women!

Here we go again... The excitement builds as many around the world are preparing their attendance to the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) in New York, in March.

The National Council of Women of Canada has attended, ever since receiving ECOSOC status after the 1995 World Conference on Women in Beijing, China. Last year was the 20th Anniversary of that historic document, and it has been an active year in terms of continuing to advocate for gender equality, women's empowerment, and women's human rights. There was the action of intervening and taking a leadership role with the work, and approval of the Sustainable Development Goals. Meetings on Security Council 1325 highlighted the need for women to play an active role in achieving peace. It is always amazing to be part of the Non Government Organization (NGO) movement, whether here in Canada, or the many parts of the world where women are fighting for their rights.

Priority theme:
Women’s empowerment and its link to sustainable development
Review theme:
The elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls (agreed conclusions from the fifty-seventh session)
- See more at: http://www.unwomen.org/en/csw/csw60-2016#sthash.TPayK67C.dpuf

This year is an important year with the theme of Women's Empowerment and Link to Sustainable Development. Women were active participants at the recent meetings in Paris, France on Climate Change, and I expect this will feature strongly in the discussions. Women are affected by Climate Change in many ways. The Elimination and Prevention of all forms of Violence Against Women and Girls, from the 57th Session of the CSW will be the Review Theme. You can see the agreed conclusions from that session here.

Although I am not attending the meetings of the CSW this year, I will be there in spirit and supporting the wonderful team of NCWC members who are attending. Watch this Blog and get caught up with what they are doing and observing. You will be in for a wonderful opportunity to experience the CSW through their eyes!

Mary Scott

Priority theme:
Women’s empowerment and its link to sustainable development
Review theme:
The elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls (agreed conclusions from the fifty-seventh session)
- See more at: http://www.unwomen.org/en/csw/csw60-2016#sthash.TPayK67C.dpuf

Priority theme:
Women’s empowerment and its link to sustainable development
Review theme:
The elimination and prevention of all forms of violence against women and girls (agreed conclusions from the fifty-seventh session)
- See more at: http://www.unwomen.org/en/csw/csw60-2016#sthash.TPayK67C.dpuf