Mr. Speaker, on November 25, we observe the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a reminder that gender-based violence continues to threaten women, girls and gender diverse people across Canada, and on November 27, we mark the eighth anniversary of the historic apology delivered to 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians, an affirmation that equality, dignity and inclusion must guide us always.
Budget 2025 turns that premise into action with over $660 million over five years to advance women's equality, support 2SLGBTQI+ Canadians and expand Canada's fight against gender-based violence. To Emma, an openly queer student from Burnaby Central who wrote to me urging that we keep fighting for the most vulnerable, who still face discrimination and harassment simply because of who they are, on this side of the house, we hear them, we see them and we will defend their rights every single day.