AURORA.
noun. \ ə-ˈrȯr-ə
1) emission of light from atoms excited by electrons;
2) the Roman goddess of dawn.
Aurora champions women and gender equality through a series of interviews inclusive of a wide range of voices. We recognize that freedom of expression is an important step towards equitable outcomes for women and by extension all of humanity.
Photo Courtesy of Margaret Wilsson.
MARGARET WILLSON.
Iceland has a long history of women going to sea. Margaret Willson, in conversation with Erica Dingman, discusses her research into the hidden history of Icelandic seawomen, both past and present, and how that knowledge can offer insight into approaches for gender equality today.
Photo Courtesy of Björn Lyrvall.
BJÖRN LYRVALL.
In 2014, Sweden became the first country in the world to pursue a feminist foreign policy. Björn Lyrvall, in conversation with Erica Dingman, provides insightful commentary on how Sweden’s feminist foreign policy has evolved domestically to advance gender equality in the Arctic and beyond.
Photo Courtesy of Marie-Anne Coninsx.
MARIE-ANNE CONINSX.
Marie-Anne Coninsx, in conversation with Erica Dingman, emphasizes the European Union’s commitment to constructive cooperation and inclusiveness in the Arctic as the way forward for solving many of the globe’s most pressing challenges.
Photo courtesy of Bryndís Kjartansdóttir.
BRYNDÍS KJARTANSDÓTTIR.
Iceland has very progressive policies on gender equality. Bryndís Kjartansdóttir, Senior Arctic Official for Iceland, which holds the Chairmanship 2019-2021, in conversation with Erica Dingman discusses how gender issues are being addressed at the Arctic Council.
Photo courtesy of Jake Dyson.
M JACKSON.
As an author, explorer and communicator, Dr. M Jackson aims for an inclusive narrative on climate change told through stories of how people and glaciers interact. In conversation with Erica Dingman, M Jackson gives a compelling account of her experience and why we must be open to new approaches to the challenges that lay ahead.
Photo courtesy of Liv Inger Somby.
LIV INGER SOMBY.
A culture of silence among Sámi endures to this day. In conversation with Erica Dingman, Liv Inger Somby discusses the intense traumas of assimilation, violence and abuse suffered by elder Sámi women who live in Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia.
Photo Courtesy of Madeleine Redfern
MADELEINE REDFERN.
An increasing number of Nunavut’s young women are pursuing a post-secondary education. Yet, most high school students tend to be unprepared for higher education. Madeleine Redfern, in conversation with Erica Dingman, discusses how Nunavut’s future depends on improvements to its educational system.
Photo Courtesy of Angu Motzfeld.
SARA OLSVIG.
In many respects Greenland is at the forefront of gender equality, but obstacles remain for the advancement of women both professionally and domestically. In conversation with Erica Dingman, Sara Olsvig reflects on initiatives started during her time as an elected official, areas for improvement, and why women’s right and children’s rights should be considered collectively.
DIRECTOR OF AURORA.
Erica Dingman is the founder of the Arctic in Context initiative at the World Policy Institute. Arctic in Context was launched in 2014, and mixes digital technology with in-person events. The initiatives web-based platform provides a global audience with an accessible overview of region-wide issues using timelines, videos, and analysis. Her articles have appeared in various publications including CNN, Al Jazeera, Arctic Yearbook and Diplomatic Courier. She is a member of the University of Washington’s Arctic Center Steering Committee and holds a Masters in International Affairs from The New School.
You can find Erica on Twitter: @ericading.