WOLASTOQIYIK WAHSIPEKUK OF CACOUNA
VICE GRAND CHIEF AND COUNCIL CHIEF OF THE WOLASTOQIYIK WAHSIPEKUK FIRST NATION
• A career journalist, Shirley Kennedy dedicated nearly 25 years to the largest independent press group in Eastern Quebec, where she served as editor for ten years before retiring in December 2024;
• Elected as Council Chief of the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk First Nation in 2020, she was re-elected in 2024. A few months later, she was appointed Vice Grand Chief of the Nation;
• Responsible for Finance, Communications, Traditional Activities, and Territory, she brings her experience and leadership to advancing sustainable development and the visibility of her community;
• Deeply committed to the cause of women and children, she welcomed, on behalf of her Nation, the regional organization of the World March of Women in 2021—an important event that culminated at Pointe de Cacouna;
• Mother of two young women, she actively advocates for education, empowerment, and recognition of the essential role of women within society and Indigenous Nations.
Citation: Like most women around the world, Indigenous women face many challenges, particularly regarding violence, health, and socio-economic conditions. Like all Indigenous women, Wolastoqey women hold essential roles within their community, combining spirituality, traditional knowledge, and leadership. They are often life-givers and knowledge keepers, especially in matters related to nature and ceremonies.
