"It is clear that women are not
regarded as equal participants
in development, nor in
activities of adult and
non-formal education."

It is clear that women are not regarded as equal participants in development, nor in activities of the adult and non-formal education sectors. Often "outside" help comes in the form of training only for men, even for those jobs traditionally done by women, such as in agriculture. Women's income-gene-rating projects in developing countries are a result of the belief that the recognition of women's economic role is crucial in bringing about changes in their status in society. These projects have both social and economic goals. Women from India shared their experience with income-generating projects. Women from Argentina shared their frustration at being active participants in bringing about their new democracy and being told now that their concerns must wait until there is a stable economic and social environment. Their country's development is to be determined by those now in power: men with patriarchal attitudes and concepts. It is a double struggle for women to have a say in the social and economic development of their countries.

We see a similar "double disadvantaged" position in Canada with black women, poor women, disabled women, native women and immigrant women. Their concerns as black, native, immigrant or disabled persons are being represented by organizations mainly run by men. They are pulled in two directions - to work for their specific group's equality as well as for their equality as women. There was also the familiar story of women workers not being given the training opportunities of their male counterparts.

CCLOW, representing all provinces and territories in Canada, has developed some unique models for running an organization, for researching women's learning needs and for providing a skills bank of knowledgeable women willing to share their expertise. This assembly in Buenos Aires provided us with a wonderful opportunity to start sharing what we have learned with women from other countries. It is the beginning of a positive relationship between CCLOW and the Women's Program of ICAE. We have much to learn from women in developing nations and I hope we also have much to share. This assembly was just a beginning.

In closing I would like to thank Status of Women Canada, The International Education Centre, the Halifax City Regional Library and CCLOW for the moral and financial support that enabled me to participate in this unique experience.