Statement by the NDP to mark Women’s History Month

Official Opposition Status of Women’s critic Niki Ashton (Churchill) made the following statement to mark Women’s History Month:

“During Women’s History Month, we join with many to celebrate the women who have been changing our world.

Incredible women have fought for equality and justice in countless ways. We are proud of the strides women have made, but gender equality is still a long way off.

Canadian women still face discrimination. They not only earn less than their male counterparts, they are disproportionately found in precarious, low-paid positions and in poverty. Consecutive Conservative and Liberal governments have failed to implement critical programs like affordable, universally accessible child care – a significant barrier for women. Important supports for advocacy and research to address discrimination have been eliminated.

Women and girls continue to be the target of violence and violations of their basic human rights. The Conservative government’s refusal to hold an inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women shows callous disregard for Indigenous women.

New Democrats believe that women deserve equality and justice. We join with many Canadian women and all Canadians in celebrating Women's History Month and recommitting to the fight for equality.”