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March 8th, 2019

NDP Statement on International Women’s Day

Jagmeet Singh, Leader of Canada’s NDP, issued the following statement:

On behalf of the federal NDP Caucus, I am honoured to be able to take this opportunity to mark International Women’s Day. I particularly want to recognize the work of our women MPs and of so many women’s organizations across the country, who are outstanding advocates for their communities.

This year’s theme for International Women’s Day celebrations around the world is #BalanceforBetter. Here in Canada, Trudeau’s Liberal government was elected with high hopes of real change, but too often their lofty rhetoric has not been balanced with concrete action to advance gender equality.

Gender equality means enacting strong social programs that help women thrive, like affordable housing, health care and pharmacare.

Gender equality means not having to choose between having a family and having a career because quality child care is accessible and affordable for all Canadians, no matter where they live.

Gender equality means that people receive equal pay for work of equal value – and aren’t asked to wait years for this basic economic justice.

Gender equality means frontline services have stable funding so that women can access the services they need, when they need them.

Gender equality means that all Canadians feel safe and secure at home, at school, at work and in their communities.

Gender equality means that we listen to women and girls about their experiences and needs – and that we respect their right to make decisions that work for them about their own bodies, and their own lives.

As we celebrate the gains women have made, let’s also commit to keep pushing for real and lasting change. That’s #BalanceforBetter – and it’s what New Democrats will continue to strive for, each and every day.