March 8, 2017
(Ottawa, ON) – The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is marking International Women’s Day on March 8 by honouring First Nations women and Indigenous women around the world for their continuing contributions to improving the lives of Indigenous peoples, and encouraging everyone to consider the ways they can raise awareness of the many issues affecting First Nation’s women and girls.
“International Women’s Day is a time to remember our commitment to working for a more inclusive, equal world,” said AFN National Chief Bellegarde. “In First Nations cultures, women play many roles – from leaders to life givers, matriarchs and wisdom keepers. Women are the centre of the family, the community and the Nation. I am indebted to the work and guidance of the AFN’s national Women’s Council. Their advice and direction informs everything we do. In keeping with the theme of this year’s International Women’s Day, we encourage everyone to take action that truly creates a better world for women and to ‘Be Bold for Change’.”
Indigenous women from across Canada are currently in Toronto, Ontario for the 2017 National Indigenous Women’s Summit to discuss important issues including access to opportunity and culturally responsive gender-based implementation of the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People and the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.
Association of Iroquois and Allied Indians Deputy Grand Chief Denise Stonefish, who is Chair of the AFN Women’s Council, stated: “As today’s role models for our young girls and boys, we must raise awareness in honouring the rights of First Nations women and celebrating their triumphs, by never relinquishing the connection to the past, and continuing to shed light on the inequalities and the injustices that First Nations women continue to face.”
International Women’s Day is observed on March 8 as a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity. This year’s theme is #BeBoldforChange. Get more information at: www.internationalwomensday.com
The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.
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For media requests or more information, please contact:
Don Kelly
AFN Communications Director
613-241-6789 ext. 200 or C: 613-292-2787
[email protected]