CONCLUSION:
The most important thing I learned about Dr. Lillian Dyck is that she has a huge and very important role in her society. She is one of the leaders in a changing world amongst a people with strong beliefs that they have held tightly to for hundreds of years. Just as our text states, “science and technology are themselves generally viewed as masculine pursuits.” Furthermore, “Since minorities are systematically steered away from technology it has become a major instrument of elite male domination in terms of education, role models, and job opportunities. Women, on the other hand, are socially conditioned to avoid technology” (Leonard, 2003, pg.19).
Dr. Dyck has quite a mountain to climb. She recognizes this herself. She is constantly striving to be a strong voice amongst Aboriginal women in order to further her endeavours for her entire culture. Here are some of her specific goals as senator:
“As a senator, there are many activities and issues that one can become involved in, more than is humanly possible, so initially I have decided to focus on these as my top priorities for the next few years:
“Aborginal Women (Missing Aboriginal Women, Violence towards Aboriginal Women), Bill C-31 and its impact on Aboriginal women and men, Women in Science (recruitment and retention of women into professional scientific and technological careers), Aboriginal education and employment (recruitment and retention of aboriginals in the educational system and on the job), and Mental Health (the causes and treatment of psychiatric disorders)” (Dyck, n.d.).
I have great respect and admiration for Dr. Lillian Dyck. My awe is personal as a woman. However, I can only imagine the weight she bears in this world as a minority and, more importantly, one in such a field as hers.
