Lena Pedersen facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lena (Elizabeth Magdalena) Pedersen
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 1940 |
| Nationality | Canadian Inuit |
| Occupation | Politician |
| Spouse(s) | Red Pedersen |
Lena (Elizabeth Magdalena) Pedersen was born in Greenland in 1940. She is a well-known politician and social worker from Nunavut, Canada. In 1959, Lena moved from Greenland to the Northwest Territories. She lived in several communities like Coppermine (Kugluktuk), Pangnirtung, and Rae (Behchoko). Later, she moved to Cape Dorset (Kinngait). There, she helped sell artwork for the West Baffin Eskimo Co-operative.
Contents
Lena Pedersen's Political Journey
First Woman Elected to the Legislative Assembly
Lena Pedersen made history in the 1970 Northwest Territories general election. She was the first woman ever elected to the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories. This assembly is like a parliament for the Northwest Territories. Before 1970, women were allowed to vote and run for office since 1951. Lena was not the very first woman to run, but she was the first to win a seat. She represented the Central Arctic District.
In 1999, Lena Pedersen was chosen for an important role. The premier of Nunavut, Paul Okalik, appointed her to the Maligarnit Qimirrujiit. This group is Nunavut's Law Review Commission. Their job is to look at laws and suggest changes to make them better for the people of Nunavut.
Later Political Efforts
Lena Pedersen continued to be involved in politics. In the 2003 Northwest Territories general election, she ran for a seat in Yellowknife Centre. However, she was not elected in that race.
Honoring Lena's Contributions
Lena Pedersen's work and dedication have been recognized. A special place in Yellowknife was named in her honor. It was called the Lena Pederson (Kitikmeot) Boarding Home. This home was used by patients from Nunavut's Kitikmeot Region when they traveled to Yellowknife for medical care.
Family in Politics
Lena Pedersen was once married to Red Pedersen. Their family's connection to politics continues. Their grandson, Calvin Pedersen, was also elected to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut in July 2020. This shows a strong family tradition of public service.
Lena's Thoughts on Government
Lena Pedersen has shared her views on how government works. In 1974, she spoke about the Northwest Territories government moving north. She said that while the government moved closer in miles to some communities, it was still far from the people. She believed it hadn't truly connected with them.
