Thank you so much, MP Sidhu, for your work as vice-chair of FEWO. It's very important for us and for those diverse communities such as those in your community. I was happy to connect with folks like those at Pink Attitude. Their voices were echoed by many we've heard in Black, indigenous and racialized communities across the country during COVID.
We have seen progress over the past 50 years. When the police are called to a case of domestic violence now, they respond. Fifty-plus years ago, they would see it as a matter between a man and his wife and let it be. Women can now apply for a mortgage and be qualified to do so without needing their husband's signature on the application form. There's a department within the Government of Canada responsible for women and gender equality. This didn't exist 50-plus years ago. That is all a testament to the tireless advocacy, the pain and the suffering, frankly, of those who've come before us who pushed for these changes and who found creative ways to make them happen.
As you mentioned, that progress is not carved in stone. On December 7 we will do what we can to celebrate the milestones achieved over the past 50 years, and look ahead to the very difficult road to a full recovery from COVID. I encourage colleagues to convene if they can, virtually or by telephone. They can shine a light on the work women and leaders in their own communities have done, because the best way we can move forward from here on is to stay connected with grassroots movements across the country and let them know that the Government of Canada has their back.