Vatican underlines the significance of indigenous women leading a promising future
Holy See Advocates for Empowerment of Indigenous Women
The Holy See, represented by Monsignor Juan Antonio Cruz Serrano, has emphasized the importance of empowering indigenous women as active protagonists in shaping a better future during a special session of the Organization of American States (OAS) Permanent Council.
During the session, held on Wednesday, Monsignor Cruz Serrano reaffirmed the Holy See's closeness to indigenous peoples, with a specific focus on indigenous women. He appreciated the work of the OAS in reaching out to Indigenous peoples and vulnerable groups, especially women and girls.
The Holy See's advocacy aims to elevate the status of indigenous women, encouraging them to take on leadership roles and be recognized as vital contributors to their communities' development. This advocacy is part of the Holy See's broader efforts to promote indigenous cultures and ensure these women have a more prominent role in shaping their communities' futures.
The theme of the special session was "Through the Voice of Indigenous Women: Visibility, Leadership, Rights, and Economic Autonomy." The Church invests in the education and health of Indigenous peoples in various parts of the hemisphere, and the Holy See supports appropriate spiritual journeys and cultural preservation, recognizing the unique value of indigenous cultures and the importance of preserving these traditions.
While the Holy See's statements may not directly address economic autonomy, the overarching goal is to empower indigenous women, which likely includes supporting their economic rights and self-sufficiency. The Church aims to make members of Indigenous communities the protagonists and leaders of their own history.
The OAS supports initiatives that seek to amplify the voices, protect the rights, and ensure the full participation of Indigenous women and girls in society. Monsignor Cruz Serrano stated that the theme provides guidance for the debate on the contribution and essential role of women in society.
This advocacy by the Holy See aligns with broader global efforts to empower women and promote human rights, as seen in its support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include targets for gender equality and the empowerment of women. The Holy See's stance on indigenous women is grounded in a commitment to their empowerment and recognition as vital contributors to their societies.
- The advocacy by the Holy See, as observed in its stance on indigenous women, extends to the promotion of women's health and wellness, as part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) focus on gender equality and the empowerment of women.
- The Holy See, in its efforts to elevate the status of indigenous women, also encourages their involvement in health-and-wellness decision-making processes, acknowledging their unique role and contributions to their communities and societies.
