The following is a statement from Irene Lanzinger, President of the BC Federation of Labour.
March 8th is International Women’s Day. For more than 100 years we have marked this important day, taking the opportunity to reflect on the progress made and achievements won for women across the globe.
But we all know there are still very real challenges facing women in the home, in the workplace, and in the community at large.
Inequality and pay equity persist; funding for childcare remains out of reach; and women are still overrepresented in low-wage jobs and underrepresented in politics and in corporate boardrooms.
The trade union movement has been at the forefront of the fight for fairness, equality, rights and respect.
We know that good jobs, decent wages, and strong public services are the backbone of a sustainable economy. The labour movement plays a critical role in advancing these issues so all working people can thrive.
In fact, where there are higher rates of unionization, the income gap between the rich and the poor is smaller.
Make no mistake, income inequality is a woman’s issue. In BC, 63% of minimum wage earners are women. That number jumps to 70% for low wage earners over the age of 25, meaning that women are more likely to remain in low wage jobs for their working lives.
Clearly our efforts to build an equal and fair society must continue. International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recommit to overcoming the struggles we continue to face.
When we stand together for what is right, we make a difference.
I encourage every person to take part in an International Women’s Day event in your community and join the global movement for women’s rights. Large or small – every action counts.
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Media contact: Jaime Matten 604-561-2663