Welcome to meeting number 98 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format pursuant to the Standing Orders. Members are attending in person in the room and remotely using the Zoom application.
Since we do have witnesses online, I am going to go through this. I would like to make a few comments for the benefit of the members and witnesses.
Before speaking, please wait until I recognize you by name. For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mic, and please mute yourself when you're not speaking. Those in the room, your mic will be controlled by proceedings and verification officer. You may speak in the official language of your choice, and interpretation services are available. You have the choice at the bottom of your screen of floor, English or French. I just want to make sure that everybody is aware of that.
On feedback, I'm just going to remind everybody, if you have your microphone on, make sure you do not put your earpiece close to the microphone as it will cause massive feedback to our translators, and we want to make sure they're in good shape.
I remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair. With regard to the speaking list, the committee clerk and I will do our best to maintain that.
Today we are coming back to the women's economic empowerment study. Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Thursday, September 21, 2023, the committee will resume its study on economic women's empowerment.
Today we have three guests on our first panel. From the DisAbled Women's Network of Canada, I would like to welcome Bonnie Brayton, who is the chief executive officer. From the Manitoba Possible, we Lindsey Cooke, chief executive officer, and joining her is Jennifer Lusby, who is the chairperson. Online, you will find from YWCA Hamilton, Medora Uppal, the chief executive officer.
Each of you will be provided with five minutes for opening comments, when you see me waving my hands that means to get it done in the next 10 to 15 seconds.
Okay. I'm going to pass the floor over so we can get started with Bonnie.
Bonnie, you have the floor for five minutes.