The concerns of Aboriginal women are an integral part of our approach to every area of our mandate and thus can be found throughout our report and other Commission documents. Here we focus specifically on issues of importance raised by Aboriginal women and the problems and the solutions they identified. The need for healing is a recurring theme for Aboriginal women. Healing will bring about the full inclusion of Aboriginal women in all areas of Aboriginal society. For many Aboriginal women and, indeed, for many Aboriginal people, healing is a necessary first step in rebuilding their nations.
E lders P erspectives The elders represent another way of seeing the world.
Their perspective and their understanding of Canada have much to contribute to discussions of future relationships in this country. Elders in Aboriginal communities are those recognized and respected for knowing, living and teaching the traditional knowledge. They see the world through the eyes of the ancestors and interpret the contemporary world through lessons passed down through generations. Their wisdom is transferred to young people who seek their teachings. The elders are a living bridge between the past and the present.