The founding of the Fédération in 1907 marked the beginning of a French-Canadian maternalist movement. During the first third of the 20th century, this Catholic organization led various feminist campaigns in Quebec, including those for reform of the Civil Code, women’s suffrage, and access to higher education. It encouraged the involvement of laywomen in philanthropic and social sectors previously the exclusive domain of religious communities and the Church. Through its activism and social initiatives, the Fédération contributed to the general advancement of women and the welfare of society as a whole.