New federal investment to strengthen the economic security and prosperity of Indigenous women in Manitoba
News release
November 14, 2018 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Status of Women Canada
Indigenous women hold important places as leaders in their families and communities, as givers and caretakers of life, as peacemakers, peacekeepers, and protectors. By creating the conditions for Indigenous women to succeed, we are also supporting their families and communities, which will help improve their economic well-being and strengthen Canada's economy.
Terry Duguid, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Status of Women and Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South, and Robert-Falcon Ouellette, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre, today announced on behalf of the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister of Status of Women, Government of Canada funding for a project that will help advance Indigenous women's economic security and prosperity in Manitoba.
Barriers for Métis women in Manitoba exist, and include a lack of accessible childcare programs and early learning opportunities. The Infinity Women Secretariat Inc. (IWS) of Manitoba is receiving $283,800 for Prosperity through Innovation: Métis Women in Manitoba, a 36-month project that will address these and other barriers to economic security faced by Métis mothers and caregivers as they enter, re-enter or remain in the workforce.
Métis women will be at the centre of all project activities. Their lived experiences will guide and inform the project in assessing needs and in shaping the creation of individualized pathways to prosperity plans for participants.. The IWS will partner with the Manitoba Métis Federation's Métis Employment and Training Department, as well as with the Louis Riel Institute. Together with an external network of partners, the IWS will work to establish new relationships with the private sector to encourage a larger network of employers committed to inclusion in the workplace.
This project is one of 15 that are receiving funding through the call for proposals Addressing the Economic Security and Prosperity of Indigenous Women which was launched last fall. Other projects related to this call for proposals will be announced in the coming months.
"When we invest in women, we strengthen the economy and our communities for everyone. By funding organizations like the Infinity Women Secretariat Inc. that address the very real barriers that Indigenous women face, we are ensuring that all women have an equal and fair chance at success. It's not just the right thing to do, but the smart thing to do. Indigenous women have the talent, leadership and ingenuity to inspire positive change and that is why the Government of Canada is proud to support projects like this."
The Honourable Maryam Monsef, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Status of Women
"I am pleased to announce an investment for an important project that will lead to greater economic security and prosperity for Métis women in Manitoba. This project will create strong partnerships which will help remove barriers and ensure greater success for Métis women in the workforce."
Terry Duguid
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister Status of Women
Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South
"We need to ensure an inclusive workforce where strong Indigenous mothers can access childcare so they are able to work and support their families and children."
Robert-Falcon Ouellette
Member of Parliament for Winnipeg Centre
"We welcome the Government of Canada's support for this project which will help address barriers to economic security faced by Métis mothers/caregivers across Manitoba, as well as undertake research and engagement activities. This important partnership will allow our organization to establish new relationships with the private sector to encourage a larger network of employers to ensure greater inclusion for Métis women in the workplace."
Anita Campbell, Spokeswoman
Infinity Women Secretariat Inc.
Quick facts
McKinsey Global Institute estimates that by taking steps to advance equality for all women—such as employing more women in technology and boosting women's participation in the workforce—Canada could add $150 billion to its economy by 2026.
The Indigenous population is growing at four times the rate of non-Indigenous Canadians and represents an enormous pool of talent. As part of this cohort, Indigenous women play a vital role in our economy and have outstanding potential for growth.
The 2016 Census indicated that there were 860,265 Indigenous women and girls in Canada. These women were more likely than Indigenous men to have a university degree. They were also the majority owners of more than one quarter of all Indigenous SMEs in Canada according to the 2014 Survey on Financing and Growth of Small and Medium Enterprises.
Projects are being funded through the call for proposals, Addressing the Economic Security and Prosperity of Indigenous Women, which was announced in October 2017.
As many Indigenous women are raising families while going to school, better access to child care and subsidized housing would help support them and their families.
Economic security and prosperity is composed of basic social security, defined by access to basic needs such as health, education and housing on a long-term basis.
The Women's Program at Status of Women Canada supports eligible organizations to carry out projects to advance equality by addressing systemic barriers.
The Government of Canada is committed to advancing reconciliation with Inuit, First Nations, and the Métis Nation. The focus is on building a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples, one based on the recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership.
