Strengthening the Seniors Sector in Yellowknife:
- deputydirector62
- Oct 30
- 1 min read
Programming, Needs, Barriers and Future vision report
Written By: Rana Saghafi and Thea Marzan, Social Work Practicum Students, Red Deer Polytechnic
Presented by: Arlene Hache, Interim Executive Director, Yellowknife Women's Society
I am pleased to share with you “Strengthening the Seniors Sector in Yellowknife: Programming, Needs, Barriers and Future Vision”, a report prepared by Social Work practicum students, Rana Saghafi and Thea Marzan from Red Deer Polytechnic, in partnership with the Yellowknife Women’s Society.
This report centers the voices of seniors living within our housing programs and sheds light on both the strengths and the serious gaps within Yellowknife’s senior support system. It reflects the lived experiences of seniors who continue to face barriers related to housing, mobility, health, and social inclusion, and calls for a more coordinated, culturally grounded, and compassionate approach to care.
It is deeply troubling that when the students presented these findings during a public consultation, they were subjected to racist and aggressive responses. Their experience underscores the very issues the report raises, the persistence of systemic racism, discrimination, and dismissal of Indigenous voices in our community. The Yellowknife Women’s Society stands firmly with these students and with all those who speak truth to power on behalf of vulnerable populations.
I hope this report will serve as a catalyst for collective reflection and change; encouraging us to confront uncomfortable truths, strengthen partnerships, and work together toward a seniors’ sector that truly honours dignity, respect, and inclusion for all.