SASKATCHEWAN MARKS INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

March 8th is International Women’s Day, a day to consider what steps can be taken to bring about equality for women, in all of their diversity.

“International Women’s Day reminds us of the resiliency women have shown decade after decade in their fight for equality,” Minister responsible for Status of Women Joan Beatty said.  “It’s also an important that on this day we honour those who have led the way.”

The Canadian theme for International Women’s Day 2007 is Ending Violence Against Women: Action for Real Results. 

“This year’s theme underscores why it is that the fight for equality must continue,” Beatty said.  “Yet just last year, the federal government revised the mandate of the federal Status of Women Office saying that women in Canada have achieved equality with men.  But when we’re still having to address something as fundamental as violence, it’s obvious there is still work to be done before that can be considered true.”

Progress on equiry for women has been uneven, with fundemental issues such as the poverty experienced by many women and children still needing to be addressed.

Despite the closure of the federal office, Saskatchewan’s Status of Women Office remains committed to working with women’s groups from across the province to further equality issues.

“I do believe women in Canada will eventually achieve equality and I hope the federal government will decide to actively support that goal rather than making decisions that will only delay it,” Beatty said.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Nadine Sisk
Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4156
Email: nsisk@lab.gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-535-1930