Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today in the House to mark International Women's Week, March 6 to 12.
The federal theme this year is “Canadian Women Taking Action To Make a Difference”. This theme was chosen to highlight the initiatives and accomplishments of women's organizations across the country in the struggle against violence and poverty, the major themes of the upcoming World March of Women in the year 2000.
Women's organizations have played a key role in influencing government policy to advance gender equality in all aspects of Canadian life. The work to make a difference in the areas of violence against women and poverty has impacted on the lives of many women and young girls in creating an awareness of these crucial issues among decision makers and all Canadians.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us remember that while we have made progress, women account for 88% of the victims of sexual assault. Single mothers with children under 18 have a poverty rate of 57%.
We salute the efforts of all women across Canada to end violence against women and poverty in society. Each of us has had a role to play in reaching these goals and we will all benefit from these efforts.