A statement by Carol McBride, President of the Native Women’s Association of Canada, on International Women’s Day

Press Release

March 8, 2024

“On this, the 113th annual International Women’s Day, I am extending a virtual hug to all the women and girls around the world who are standing up against sexism, racism, discrimination, and all forms of oppression.

I would especially like to acknowledge First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women here in Canada who are dismantling the colonial hierarchy that, for centuries, declared female persons to be inferior to men.

The theme of International Women’s Day this year is Inspire Inclusion. I agree we must ‘inspire’ others to treat all people as equals, including Indigenous women, Two-Spirit, transgender, and gender-diverse people represented by our organization.

But I would go further. We must not only inspire inclusion; we must demand it.

For too long, women in colonial societies have been forced to take a passive approach to the assertion of our human rights. Decisions about our inclusion were made by men. I think about the women who came before me, who paved the road for our inclusion. As NWAC is in its 50th year, I think about their tireless advocacy. They continue to inspire NWAC’s work in demanding self-determination and human security. .

Society is changing. Sexism is being called out. But much more needs to be done.

So, happy International Women’s Day and congratulations on the strides we have made to date. I look forward to a brighter and even more inclusive tomorrow.”

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Media Contact:

For information, or to arrange an interview, contact:

Roselie LeBlanc
roselie@sparkadvocacy.ca

604-928-3233

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