STRONG WOMEN STORIES: Native Vision and Community Survival

This collection of seventeen essays presents original and critical perspectives from writers, scholars and activists on issues that are pertinent to Aboriginal women and their communities in both rural and urban settings in Canada. Their contributions explore the critical issues facing Native women as they rebuild and revive their communities.

Through topics such as the role of tradition, reclaiming identities and protecting Native children and the environment, they identify the restraints that shape their actions and the inspirations that feed their visions.The contributors address issues of youth, health and sexual identity; women's aging, sexuality and health; caring for children and adults living with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome; First Nations education and schooling; community-based activism on issues of prostitution and sex workers; and reclaiming cultural identity through art and music.

Kim Anderson is a Cree/Metis writer, educator and researcher who works in social and health policy development for Aborginal organizations. Bonita Lawrence (Mi'kmaq) is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Women's Studies at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario.