International Women's Day 2018
March 8, 2018 is International Women’s Day – a day to recognize, celebrate, and reflect on the achievements of women all around the world. It is also a call to action to support women’s rights and advance gender equality.
While some gains have been made in gender equality there is still much more to do. According to the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) 2016 Global Gender Gap Report, Canada ranks 35th in the WEF index. The slow progress reflects the current state and serves as a call to action to accelerate gender equality. Pay equity, access to universal child care and violence against women are issues on which women are calling for action.
It is because of the pressure being put by feminists that society is gradually doing away with discriminatory practices and policies. This year, for the first time, gender-based analysis was used in preparing the federal budget. This gave rise to the introduction of paid leave for victims of domestic violence as well as increased funding to deal with workplace harassment. It is important to celebrate the victories that have been won through feminist struggles.
The Joint Learning Program supports the need to work together to make gender equality a reality.