We are deeply concerned by the federal government’s decision to eliminate the Minister for Women and Gender Equality, as well as ministries dedicated to championing issues of social equity such as labour, disability, youth, mental health and addictions.
This decision comes amidst a growing global backlash against women’s and gender rights, with several countries scaling back protections and support systems. Now, more than ever, we need strong leadership to address the unique challenges faced by women, girls and gender diverse people, at all of our intersections, in every aspect of our lives. Eliminating or consolidating these critical issues into broader portfolios undermines decades of progress that has been made to advance gender equity, support workers’ rights, and address the critical needs of systemically marginalized communities.
The Minister for Women and Gender Equality is essential to driving policies and initiatives that empower women, girls, and gender diverse people across Canada. Removing this leadership sends a troubling message about the importance of prioritizing gender equity in government decision-making. More than 200 feminist organizations have joined the call for the Prime Minister to reconsider and reinstate this critical position.
As an organization that works to support women, girls, and gender diverse people, we will continue to advocate for policies that uphold gender equity, inclusivity, and accessibility for all. People in Canada should not have to choose between economic growth and critical social priorities; in fact, the two go hand in hand and must support each other. We must not allow these critical issues to be sidelined, and we must continue advocating for strong leadership, accountability and policies that protect and uplift the rights and wellbeing of all women, girls and gender diverse people.
Click the link below to read our collective statement and view the growing list of signatories:
https://www.actioncanadashr.org/news/2025-03-14-canadian-government-eliminates-minister-women-and-gender-equality-amid-united-nations-womens-rights
MEDIA
Sami Pritchard, Director of Advocacy and Communications, YWCA Toronto
437.286.9627 | spritchard@ywcatoronto.org