Elisabeth Johansen

Greenlandic midwife and politician

Elisabeth Johansen

Elisabeth Johansen (1913–1993) was a pioneering Greenlandic midwife and politician. She was the first woman to be elected to the Parliament of Greenland, where she served from 1959 to 1975. Her contributions to healthcare and politics have left a lasting impact on Greenlandic society.

Early life and education

Elisabeth Johansen was born on 17 November 1913 in Sisimiut, a town on the west coast of Greenland. She was the daughter of Peter Nielsen, a Danish trader, and Karen Nielsen, a Greenlandic woman. Growing up in a bicultural household, Johansen was exposed to both Danish and Greenlandic cultures, which influenced her later work in bridging cultural gaps.

Johansen pursued her education in Denmark, where she trained as a midwife. Her education was part of a broader effort to improve healthcare in Greenland by training local women in medical professions. She completed her training in 1934 and returned to Greenland to begin her career.

Career as a midwife

Upon returning to Greenland, Johansen worked as a midwife in various towns, including Nuuk and Ilulissat. Her work was crucial in a time when access to healthcare was limited, especially in remote areas. Johansen was known for her dedication to improving maternal and child health, often traveling long distances to assist with births and provide medical care.

Her efforts contributed significantly to reducing infant mortality rates and improving the overall health of women and children in Greenland. Johansen's work as a midwife was not only a medical service but also a cultural bridge, as she helped integrate modern medical practices with traditional Greenlandic knowledge.

Political career

In 1959, Johansen made history by becoming the first woman elected to the Parliament of Greenland, known as the Landsting. Her election was a significant milestone in the political landscape of Greenland, marking the beginning of increased female participation in politics.

During her tenure, Johansen focused on issues such as healthcare, education, and women's rights. She was a strong advocate for improving living conditions in Greenland and worked tirelessly to address the needs of her constituents. Her political career spanned 16 years, during which she played a key role in shaping policies that benefited the Greenlandic people.

Legacy

Elisabeth Johansen's legacy is remembered for her pioneering spirit and dedication to public service. She paved the way for future generations of women in Greenland to pursue careers in politics and healthcare. Her contributions have had a lasting impact on the development of Greenlandic society, particularly in the areas of healthcare and women's rights.

Johansen passed away on 21 September 1993, but her influence continues to be felt in Greenland today. She is celebrated as a trailblazer who broke barriers and worked tirelessly for the betterment of her community.

Related pages

• Parliament of Greenland
• Healthcare in Greenland
• Women in politics