Mr. Speaker, International Women's Week kicks off this weekend. The theme of this year's celebration here is “Canadian Women: Raising Our Diverse Voices for Positive Change”.
We have come a long way since International Women's Day was first proclaimed by women across the world struggling for equality, justice and better working conditions. Women achieved the right to vote here, became recognized as persons and began the steep climb up the ladder in society, in the workplace and in the corridors of political power.
Last year in the World March of Women 2000, women across the world once again united to effect change in the fight against poverty and violence.
This week and in particular on International Women's Day, March 8, Canadian women and their sisters across the world will celebrate their immense achievements and demonstrate their will to continue to struggle for women's rights and equality. I invite all men, women and children to take part in this important week of reflection and action.