Quebec City, May 16, 2024 — The Quebec Native Women (QNW) successfully wrapped up their 2024 Great Summit today, held from May 13 to 16 at the Hilton Quebec hotel. This landmark event brought together nearly 160 women from all Indigenous Nations across Quebec, alongside numerous dignitaries and partners dedicated to advancing the rights of Indigenous women.
The summit, hailed as a true success, featured rich and hopeful discussions focused on the myriad challenges and issues Indigenous women face. Participants explored essential themes such as education, female entrepreneurship, family and elders, language and culture, health, as well as territory and climate change. These discussions led to the formulation of innovative solutions aimed at overcoming these challenges and fostering a brighter future.
Marjolaine Étienne, president of QNW, expressed immense pride in the commitment and determination shown by participants. She highlighted the summit’s historic significance for the advancement of Indigenous women's rights in Quebec:
“This Great Summit marks a turning point in our fight for equality and recognition of the rights of Indigenous women. Together, we have paved the way towards a fairer and more inclusive future where every Indigenous woman can live safely and fulfill her full potential.”
A key highlight of the summit was the unveiling of the solutions proposed by participants. The primary goal was to assess the challenges Indigenous women in Quebec face and identify priority issues for the short, medium, and long term, establishing concrete solutions and guidelines. These proposed solutions outline a clear roadmap for future actions, demonstrating QNW’s resilience and determination in advancing the rights of Indigenous women.
The summit also featured inspiring speeches from dignitaries, including the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Gary Anandasangaree, and a message from the Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, Patty Hajdu. Both emphasized their ongoing commitment to the rights and justice for Indigenous women.
The event will conclude tonight with the Recognition Gala for the 50th anniversary of QNW at the Théâtre Capitole. This celebration will honor the exceptional achievements and leadership of Indigenous women, particularly those who have led the organization since its inception in 1974. The gala will feature captivating artistic performances and the presence of Indigenous, Quebecois, and Canadian dignitaries, underscoring the importance of this historic event.
This significant week marks an important milestone for QNW, reaffirming its dedication to bringing together, inspiring, and steadfastly advocating for the rights and dignity of Indigenous women in Quebec and beyond.
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