International Women's Day: Women at the Centre of AFNQL's Efforts

WENDAKE, QC, March 8, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - On this International Women's Day, the respect, the recognition and the dignity of our sisters, mothers, grandmothers and all women, are given a place of honour. The AFNQL wishes to acknowledge the contribution of many pioneers of women's rights and those who, today, continue to advance causes and major issues for the wellbeing of our societies.

"The empowerment of Aboriginal women continues to be a key element at the core of AFNQL's efforts to respond to social, economic and political challenges. For many years now, the Quebec Native Women have had their rightful place at the Chiefs Table. The Elected Women of the AFNQL also have their own forum, and the Chiefs Assembly of Quebec-Labrador is proud to be able to rely on these courageous women leaders who bring forward issues that are critical for our families and our communities", stated Ghislain Picard, Chief of the AFNQL.

Indigenous women from all over the world continue to fight to guarantee that justice and equality are the fundamental principles that underlie the leaders' actions. The AFNQL unequivocally supports the very hard work of these women, who, for several generations, have succeeded to bring about changes and make things progress, more particularly in the fight against discrimination and racism, prevention of violence, preservation of our cultures and languages, and contribution to the economic and political development of First Nations.

While much remains to be done to close the socioeconomic gaps and to improve the treatment of Aboriginal women in the existing systems, the AFNQL promotes women's participation as equal partners with men, in achieving sustainable development, security and full realization of human rights.

About the AFNQL
The Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador is the political organization of 43 Chiefs of the First Nations in Quebec and Labrador. www.apnql-afnql.com

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador

Mélanie Vincent, [email protected], Cell.: 418-580-4442