Decision of the Supreme Court of Canada on Bill C-92: Quebec Native Women Reacts

Press Release

Kahnawake, February 14th, 2024 – Quebec Native Women (QNW) wishes to express its profound satisfaction with today’s Supreme Court of Canada ruling on the constitutionality of An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit and Métis children, youth and families.

This law, challenged by the Legault government, aims to restore autonomy to Indigenous Peoples in the management of their child welfare systems. The current positive results achieved by communities that have successfully set up such systems are tangible proof that Indigenous communities are best placed to ensure the well-being of their children and families.

QNW now hopes that the Supreme Court’s announcement will put an end to the Quebec government’s opposition, and that it will undertake collaborative efforts with Indigenous communities and organizations to establish autonomous, accountable and effective systems.

‘’With its ruling, the Supreme Court supports Indigenous children and their parents in maintaining a safe and empowering home environment. This decision is of particular concern to Indigenous women, who more often than not head single-parent families and have to cope with many of the insidious consequences of systemic racism and discrimination, but who are also key players in the transmission of culture and language. With this decision, women, families and communities proudly regain their autonomy,’’ declares Marjolaine Étienne, president of Quebec Native Women.

About FAQ

Founded in 1974, Quebec Native Women is a non-profit organization that represents First Nations women in Quebec as well as Indigenous women living in urban areas.

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Source:

Quebec Native Women \ https://faq-qnw.org/

For information and interview requests:

Émilie Deschênes

Media Relations Advisor

662-8558 / deschenes@seize03.ca

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