Exploring the role of Alberta's aboriginal women in environmental impact assessments
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Issue Date
2014-11-20
Editor
Authors
Hovsepian, Donna
License
Subject
Aboriginal
Alberta
environmental impact assessment
gender
women
Alberta
environmental impact assessment
gender
women
Abstract
The role of women is still not considered important in discussions about sustainable development so it would seem unlikely that Aboriginal women would be consulted on environmental impact assessment activities in Alberta. Through an examination of five Aboriginal women involved in environmental impact assessment (EIA) activities in Alberta, this research explores some of their roles in EIAs, how they are exerting leadership in the process, and what some of their successes and challenges are. The results indicate that women involved in EIAs have largely navigated the complexities of the EIA process on their own with little access to tools or formal supports. In some instances, women have accessed experienced mentors in the EIA process, while some have experienced challenges with sexism, conflicts with their traditional women's roles, and with government EIA processes. Finally, this research provides some recommendations on how Aboriginal women can be supported in their involvement in EIAs.