ABORIGINAL LITERACY ADVOCATE EARNS AWARD

The Saskatchewan 2008 recipient of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award is Irene Jacques, a Standing Buffalo First Nation Elder nominated for her leadership in Aboriginal literacy.

"I would like to congratulate Ms. Jacques for her important contributions promoting and developing literacy provincially and nationally," Premier Brad Wall said. "Ms. Jacques' passion and commitment toward the lives of Aboriginal people through literacy exemplifies the potential of an individual to make a positive difference in the lives of so many others."

Since the 1990s, Jacques, whose Dakotan name is Eagle Woman, has promoted the importance of literacy for Aboriginal people as an advisor, storyteller, advocate, and through her participation on numerous literacy committees. In addition, she is a founding member of Canada's National Indigenous Literacy Association and Saskatchewan Aboriginal Literacy Network. Her efforts were previously recognized in 2006 when she received a Saskatchewan Aboriginal Literacy Award.

"Ms. Jacques teaches the importance of literacy and education for the success and involvement of Aboriginal people in Canadian society," Education Minister Ken Krawetz said. "Through her work, Ms. Jacques promotes greater understanding of Aboriginal culture. Through her stories, she empowers individuals and communities."

The Council of the Federation was established in 2003 by Canada's premiers to revitalize the Canadian federation with a more constructive and cooperative federal system and to show leadership on issues important to Canadians. The council created the literacy award to recognize the importance of literacy for developing a strong and vibrant society and economy. A medallion is presented annually in every province and territory to a person who is recognized as a literacy leader.

Ms. Jacques will be presented with her medallion during a ceremony at a date to be determined this fall.

For more information about the award visit http://www.councilofthefederation.ca/literacyaward/literacy.html.

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For more information, contact:

Kathy Hancock
Education
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1305
Email: kathy.hancock@sasked.gov.sk.ca