Division News Article

Trustee Jackie Carson receives Esquao Award

June 8th, 2018

PHPS school board trustee Jackie Carson was recently honored by the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW) as a recipient of the Esquao Award in the category of Education. The Esquao Awards Gala was held on April 27 at the River Cree Resort which Jackie attended with her husband Andrew.

The IAAW is a non-profit organization that has coordinated and hosted the Esquao Awards Gala since 1996, recognizing the efforts of over 432 women from more than 90 communities. The Esquao Awards are regarded as one of the most prestigious events in Alberta for recognizing and celebrating the accomplishments of Aboriginal women. The Awards have grown to be the single largest recognition event of Aboriginal women in the country. This wonderful event shines a light on women who serve their community, highlighting the significant contributions of Aboriginal women in the development of healthy communities.

We are never going to stop talking about the truth, we are never going to stop teaching about the truth, and we are never, ever going to forget about the truth.

Métis Nation of Alberta (MNA) President, Audrey Poitras presented Jackie’s award saying, “As a positive role model and a leader in the field of education, she brings a thoughtful, well-researched and culturally sensitive voice to the board table. And she is an amazing hockey mom with the MNA Voyageurs.”

In her acceptance speech, Carson told the audience of a conversation she had with her children about a book they read together on residential schools. She says,” We are never going to stop talking about the truth, we are never going to stop teaching about the truth, and we are never, ever going to forget about the truth.” She went on to say, “I’m so thankful to my fellow school board members and all of those at Pembina Hills Public Schools. I love my job and all the work we do to continuously pursue excellence in education for our kids, and try and do things just a little bit better every single day.”

Congratulations Jackie on being recognized for your contributions to education and the advancement of Aboriginal women.

See video from the 2018 Esquao Awards Ceremony on the IAAW Facebook page.