Government of New Brunswick

November 29, 2018

MONCTON (GNB) – The New Brunswick Women’s Council has released a new set of findings from its public engagement initiative, Resonate. The data being shared today focuses on organizations and initiatives operating in New Brunswick that serve, support, and advocate for women.

“When we asked women through Resonate what is working well to improve their lives, the majority told us that it is organizations that focus on women or gender-based issues,” said Jody Dallaire, council co-chair. “It was critical that organizations participate in Resonate and we truly appreciate that organizations took time to tell us what is working well for them and what challenges they are facing.”

The data focusing on organizations was gathered at an in-person event with participants representing more than 35 organizations and initiatives engaged in direct service and advocacy. Today's release follows previous publications of data gathered from over 1 400 women and individuals belonging to gender minorities in New Brunswick through surveys and discussion groups.

Resonate identified that organizations and initiatives primarily focus on empowering women and have strengths in assisting women with referrals and systems navigations and being client-centered in their work. Organizations and initiatives also clearly identified three challenges affecting their ability to serve their communities and meet their mandates: funding, inclusion, and engagement.

“These organizations provide vital services across our province and are trusted and effective,” said Jennifer Richard, council co-chair. “They also face significant challenges that affect their capacity and sustainability; addressing these challenges is critical to the future of our province.”

Findings from Resonate are being shared on a microsite. The site explores the findings, shares stories and commentary from women and individuals belonging to gender minorities, and provides demographic information on participants.

The council will continue to work with the findings of Resonate and use the results to inform its work under its legislated mandate to provide advice and recommendations to government and bring public awareness to issues relevant to women’s equality.

The New Brunswick Women’s Council is an independent advisory body on women’s equality issues.

11-29-18

Media contact:  Beth Lyons, Executive Director, New Brunswick Women’s Council, 506-462-5142  [email protected]