Ottawa, ON – Today, the Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) met with representatives from the European Parliament Subcommittee on Human Rights (DROI) to discuss the ongoing systemic and aggravated forms of discrimination against Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people in Canada.
“The international community’s concern regarding the staggering rates of violence against Indigenous women in Canada demonstrates the need for action,” said NWAC’s President Francyne Joe. “It is important the world is aware of how colonization continues to negatively impact our women and how Canada is failing their obligations.”
DROI, made similarities between Indigenous women’s issues in Canada and Romani women in Europe. Soraya Post, a member of DROI pledged support to NWAC offering an alliance. Post is tired of fighting for equality and basic human rights for women.
“I don’t want an apology and I am tired of begging. I am demanding. I want action,” said Post.
Despite NWAC’s ongoing efforts to advocate for Indigenous women, girls and gender-diverse people, Canada has failed to include Indigenous women’s political voices at critical decision-making tables and to provide stable and equitable funding to NWAC.
“Our goal is to seek support from the international community to put an end to the discrimination against Indigenous women and the discrimination against NWAC as the organization that represents them,” said Joe.
