OTTAWA, March 8, 2018 /CNW/ - The Minister of Indigenous Services, Jane Philpott, issued the following statement today:
"Today we celebrate the feminist pioneers who inspire all of us with their determination to invoke equality. International Women's Day honours the contribution of women who were and continue to be at the forefront of positive change in gender equity.
As Minister of Indigenous Services, a family physician and a mother, I support this year's theme for International Women's Day, #My Feminism. In order to continue seeing positive progress on gender equity, I believe that the empowerment of Indigenous women and girls is a top priority.
The strength and wisdom of Indigenous women and elders who advocate for the rights of their children and families have a powerful and positive impact for future generations. The federal government is committed to ensuring that the voices of Indigenous women are heard and that they have the right to participate in decisions that impact their lives.
We want to ensure Indigenous women and girls receive the support they need to pursue high quality and culturally appropriate education, and develop the necessary skills to acquire meaningful employment. In the last six months as Minister of Indigenous Services, I have been inspired by the leadership of so many incredible Indigenous women – Chiefs, teachers, midwives, grandmothers, mothers, daughters, aunties and sisters. Their strong and powerful voices serve as examples to us all.
#My Feminism includes working with Indigenous partners to reform the child welfare system so that it is truly child-centered, community-directed and focused on prevention. Keeping families and communities together, as well as improving the health and well-being of Indigenous mothers and children is step towards equality for all.
#My Feminism includes steadfast opposition to all forms of violence against women, which disproportionately affects Indigenous women and girls here in Canada. Our family violence prevention program focuses on improving the safety and security of Indigenous women, children and families.
#My Feminism recognizes multiple systems of discrimination – based on gender, race, religion, ability, age, sexual orientation, and more. We can't afford to leave anyone behind.
On this International Women's Day, I encourage you to share your voice and express your solidarity for progress towards gender equality. By sharing #MyFeminism, together we are taking action towards breaking the barriers that women and girls face around the world and we are empowering them to make a difference."
This statement is also available on the Internet at www.aandc.gc.ca.
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SOURCE Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
Media may contact: Andrew MacKendrick, Office of the Honourable Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services, 613-769-7066; Media Relations, Indigenous Services Canada, 819-953-1160
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