Re: “McCooeye joins Women’s Centre as co-executive director,” May 2
I am pleased to see the employment of an Indigenous woman at our Women’s Centre. She will bring knowledge and traditions that will enrich all the other cultures already existing within the staff and membership.
The Women’s Centre has always been available to all women who require services, without discrimination. And while the safety of staff and volunteers is important, the very reason for the centre’s existence is to provide a safe space for women who access the centre.
These women hold a diversity of views, including some who may not consider themselves feminists or understand exactly what that means. They may not understand the new direction of “intersectional feminism,” espoused by the current leadership at the Women’s Centre. Nonetheless, in the 46-year tradition of the centre, all women must be welcomed with respect, and not turned away, asked to leave or even banned.
I trust the care and concern for any group will not be at the expense of others. We can see how horribly that has turned out for Indigenous cultures. Instead, I hope to see the spirit of openness and respect for all women restored to the Women’s Centre.
Pamela Loeppky
Nelson