Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the following statement today to mark Women’s History Month:

“Throughout our history, women have played a leading role in shaping Canada. In October 2022 we will celebrate the 30^e anniversary Women’s History Monthan opportunity to celebrate the excellence of women who have helped create a more just country and to recognize the work that still needs to be done.

“This year’s theme – She Paved My Way – is a tribute to pioneering women who spoke out as agents of change in areas where they were underrepresented, including arts, education and politics, and who contributed to women’s success and girls who followed them. Whether it’s women like Rosemary Brown, the first black woman in Canada to sit in a provincial legislature that inspired other women to enter politics, or Sheila Watt-Cloutier, candidate for the Nobel Peace Prize and Inuit activist, who Linking climate change to human rights, Canada is a better country because of the hard work and determination of these enablers.

“We’ve made great strides since the first Women’s History Month 30 years ago. In Canada, thanks to the tireless work of feminist activists and movements, women have gained the right to free choice and paid parental leave. In addition, their right to the same pay as their male counterparts in government-regulated workplaces is now respected. Earlier this year, the employment rate for women aged 25 to 54 hit an all-time high, boosting economic growth across the country.

“We must continue to break down the systemic barriers that women face. That’s why the Canadian government is delivering on its promise to create a Pan-Canadian Early Childhood Education and Childcare Network. This initiative will reduce regulated childcare fees starting this year and will continue to reduce them for years to come until childcare fees average $10 per day coast-to-coast.

“Additionally, we are committed to supporting the empowerment of women and girls around the world as it helps reduce poverty and promote well-being. By further promoting gender equality, including through Canada’s feminist international aid policywe will continue to invest to address the root causes of inequalities, including access to affordable childcare and essential sexual and reproductive health services, and help break down barriers for the next 30 years and beyond.

“On behalf of the Canadian government, Sophie and I encourage all Canadians to use the hashtag #Women’sHistoryMonth to learn and share the stories of the women who have shaped and continue to shape our country. This month and each month let us celebrate the many women who are making history and building a better Canada for all. »