Posted: May 25, 2026
KSCS Shares Release of Second FNQLHSSC Report on Obstetrical and Gynecological Violence and Imposed Sterilizations
(Kahnawà:ke – 25 Onerahtohkó:wa/May 25 2026)
Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia’takehnhas Community Services is sharing the release of a second research report published by the First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Health and Social Services Commission (FNQLHSSC) regarding obstetrical and gynecological violence and imposed sterilizations experienced by First Nations women in Quebec.
Officially being released on May 26, 2026, the report builds upon findings first published in 2022 and further documents the realities and experiences of First Nations women who experienced coercion, discrimination, systemic racism, and violations of free, prior, and informed consent within Quebec’s healthcare system.
According to the FNQLHSSC, this second phase of the research documented 97 testimonies involving acts of violence occurring between 1956 and 2023, including 55 cases of imposed sterilization. Testimonies outlined within the report describe deeply concerning experiences involving pressure during labour and childbirth, lack of informed consent, discriminatory treatment, racial profiling, medical procedures performed under coercive circumstances, and significant power imbalances between healthcare providers and Indigenous women.
The report further highlights how these experiences were not isolated incidents, but rather patterns reported across multiple regions and First Nations communities throughout Quebec, demonstrating the ongoing impacts of systemic racism within the healthcare and social services system.
Behind every statistic contained within this report is a person, a family, and a lived experience. The courage shown by the women who came forward to share their stories contributes to a broader truth-telling process that continues to shed light on longstanding harms experienced by Indigenous women within systems that were meant to provide care. KSCS recognizes that the subject matter addressed within this report may be deeply emotional and difficult for many community members to read.
The full report, along with information regarding the livestreamed press conference taking place on May 26 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., can be accessed here:
https://files.cssspnql.com/s/11gjS2Xcotjadzn
Community members seeking support may contact KSCS Intake during regular business hours at 450-632-6880 to connect with a worker. After hours, weekends, or holidays, the on-call worker can be reached through Kahnawà:ke Peacekeepers at 450-632-6505. Community members may also visit kscs.ca to access services through the online intake form.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Tish Pungartnik Team Leader of Communications and Public Relations Kahnawà:ke Shakotiia’takehnhas Community Services tishp@kscskahnawake.ca 450-632-6880 ext. 37230