Message from the Ministers of Health, and Mental Health and Addictions Marking International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2022

Statement

February 11, 2022

Today, on International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we recognize and celebrate the important work of women scientists and researchers across Canada.

Since 2015, the International Day of Women and Girls in Science has served to remind us of the significant gaps and barriers that still exist for women and girls in accessing and participating in science and research.

The leading science-based organizations within Canada’s federal health portfolio, Health Canada (HC) and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) benefit immensely from the invaluable contributions of diverse teams of scientists and researchers, whose work informs evidence-based decisions, policies, programs, services and initiatives to safeguard the health and wellbeing of all Canadians.

The impact of women in the public service and their work has been instrumental in our continuing fight against COVID-19. Women represent over 50% of the scientific workforce in both HC and the PHAC. Their leadership and efforts in the pandemic response, including the unprecedented mobilization and expedited review of diagnostic tests, vaccines and treatments, have been invaluable in  keeping Canadians and their communities safe. Women scientists are leading ongoing work in numerous other areas of health science and research, including mental health and health risks posed by diseases, environmental hazards, substance use, food and consumer products.

Initiatives such as the ChooseScience digital campaign and a Community-First Action Plan have provided a blueprint for advancing women in federal science. Our Government remains committed to making science a more equitable field for women and girls of all backgrounds, and empowering them to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM).

Good health and health policy depend on good science, informed through diverse disciplines, people and perspectives. Opening doors to STEM enriches the quality of science and research conducted in our country and benefits all Canadians, regardless of gender.

We invite you to learn more about the achievements of women and girls in science, making real-world impacts on the lives of people in Canada and around the world.

The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, P.C., M.P.

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