By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The federal government is investing $287,639 in a new initiative aimed at improving the economic security of immigrant and racialized women in Estrie. The funding, announced by Sherbrooke MP and Minister of National Revenue Élisabeth Brière, will support a two-year project led by the Fédération des communautés culturelles de l’Estrie (FCCE).
“This project is essential for breaking down systemic barriers that prevent immigrant and racialized women from achieving financial independence and taking their place in the economic landscape,” Brière said at a press conference on Feb. 6. She emphasized that the funding will help reduce gender-based economic inequalities and create lasting change in the region.
The initiative, titled Sécurité économique et prospérité des femmes immigrantes: Vers l’égalité femmes-hommes, will focus on systemic change by working directly with local organizations in sectors such as education, career counselling, entrepreneurship, advocacy, and financial literacy. The project includes the formation of a committee to assess the needs of immigrant women, an analysis of how existing services meet those needs, and recommendations for improving accessibility and effectiveness.
Mariame Cissé, FCCE’s assistant director and head of its women’s committee, stressed at the conference the importance of collaborative efforts. “We want to ensure that the services available truly meet the needs of immigrant women,” she said. “This project will bring together key partners, including economic sector representatives, to develop concrete solutions.”
A key component of the initiative is the involvement of a gender-based analysis consultant to evaluate the impact of existing services and help develop adaptation strategies. The project will also undergo an external evaluation to measure its effectiveness in creating long-term structural change.
The FCCE has a long history of supporting immigrant women in Estrie. Cissé highlighted previous initiatives, including financial education programs, awareness campaigns, and advocacy efforts aimed at improving gender equality. “Our federation has worked for years to support the integration of immigrant women in our region, but sustainable change requires ongoing financial backing,” she said, thanking the federal government for its continued support.
