Press release
For immediate release
Launch of the Canada-Wide Strategy for Francophone Immigrant Women in Minority Communities
The strategy suggests recommendations to ensure equity in the Canadian immigration process
Toronto, January 30, 2025 – The Alliance des femmes de la francophonie canadienne (AFFC) is proud to announce the launch of the Canada-Wide Strategy for Francophone Immigrant Women in Minority Communities: Breaking Down Barriers for Equitable Integration, announced at the Forum des intervenants et intervenantes en immigration francophone of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadiennes du Canada. This strategy, entrusted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), will enable Francophone women to have a positive, enriching and inclusive experience in their immigration process, wherever they wish to settle in Canada.
This Strategy stems from the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028 and is a new measure in the continuum of the new Francophone Immigration Policy. Taking into account the Strategy’s recommendations will help create a favourable environment where immigrant women can flourish and contribute fully to Canadian society.
“This strategy is the result of a collaborative effort with communities across the country. We invite communities and organizations to draw inspiration from and implement the elements outlined in the strategy to contribute to women’s development and strengthen the vision of a welcoming, more inclusive and stronger Canada.”
– Nour Enayeh, AFFC President
In collaboration with the Réseau de développement économique et d’employabilité du Canada (RDÉE Canada), AFFC conducted an evidence-based study based on academic research, strategic intelligence and a Canada-wide public consultation. This consultation provided a forum for French-speaking immigrant women who have settled in the country’s French-speaking minority provinces and territories. This study was made possible thanks to the collaboration of all our ecosystem partners. Thanks to them, we can now say that this Strategy was developed based on an understanding of their actual needs.
“The Strategy emphasizes the importance of supporting the economic integration of Francophone immigrant women, with a focus on networking, entrepreneurship and professional integration that respects their expertise and identity. By adapting services, we improve their active participation on the job market, strengthen their autonomy and enhance their economic potential, while contributing to the growth of the Canadian economy.”
– Yan Plante, President and CEO, RDÉE Canada
Francophone immigrant women living in Canada’s minority communities face unique obstacles related to their gender, linguistic background, racial origin, responsibilities in the immigration process and family mental burdens. These realities exacerbate the economic, social and professional integration difficulties they face. Making them more vulnerable to precariousness and exclusion. Intersectionality places them at a systemic disadvantage that requires urgent attention to promote equity and inclusion.
“French-speaking immigrant women face unique challenges in their settlement and integration efforts, and this is especially true when they choose to settle in Francophone minority communities. We commend the AFFC and RDÉE Canada on the launch of The Strategy to Better Meet the Needs of Francophone Immigrant Women in Minority Settings. The implementation of this strategy reaffirms the government’s commitment to foster population growth and economic prosperity by recognizing the significant contribution of French-speaking immigrant women and advancing gender equality in Francophone minority communities.”
– The Honorable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
The Canada-Wide Strategy for Francophone Immigrant Women in Minority Communities illustrates the urgent need to address inequalities through an intersectional approach, taking into account the multiple dimensions of their identity and the discrimination they face.
The strategy is based on 11 recommendations grouped under the following headings:
- Inclusive and holistic policies based on ACS+.
- Participation and representation of women in the development of initiatives and programs that concern them.
- Access to adapted and visible services in French.
- Support for networking, entrepreneurship and professional insertion to strengthen their economic integration.
- Strengthening rights and independence through promotion and training for immigrant women.
To build a more inclusive and prosperous Canada, it’s essential to adapt our approaches to the realities of French-speaking immigrant women. By recognizing their unique characteristics and immense potential, we can offer them the tools they need to reach their full potential.
Fostering their integration means maximizing their contribution to Canadian society and the economy. By valuing their role, we create a stronger, fairer society, benefiting us all.
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About AFFC:
The AFFC aims to mobilize and develop its network to better defend the rights of Francophone and Acadian women and thereby create a feminist and inclusive society.
About RDÉE Canada:
Recognized for its expertise, the Réseau de développement économique et d’employabilité (RDÉE Canada) has been working for over 25 years to promote the economic development of Francophone and Acadian minority communities, by supporting the collective actions of its national network members and providing leadership based on collaboration and partnerships.
Source :
Alexandra Lafontaine, Communications and Public Relations Coordinator
Alliance des femmes de la francophonie canadienne
info@affc.ca
Delphine Denis, Director of Communications and Marketing
Réseau de développement économique et d’employabilité du Canada (RDÉE Canada)
Delphine.denis@rdee.ca
343 204-3362