Statement by Minister Marci Ien on International Women’s Day

Ottawa, ON – The Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, issued the following statement today on International Women’s Day:

“Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the contributions, achievements and leadership of women and girls, in all their diversity, who are making the world a better place. 

Every day, women strengthen our homes, our workplaces, our communities, and our country. They bolster our economy as entrepreneurs, spark change as climate activists, create opportunities as heads of government, and inspire the next generation.

This year’s theme, Every Woman Counts, reminds us that women from all ages and walks of life have a place in every aspect of life in Canada, whether it be economic, social, cultural, or political. The theme also reminds us that every woman is unique, and that we must consider the intersectional lived experiences of Indigenous, Black, and racialized women, seniors, Trans women, and women in rural and remote regions.

As we come together to meet the challenges of the day – an escalating climate crisis, volatility in the global economy, and the insidious issue of gender-based violence – women’s equal participation is paramount.

Canada is fortunate to have many inspiring women role models to look up to, such as fierce champion Nicole Bourque-Bouchier, who launched one of the largest Indigenous-owned and operated companies in Alberta, entrepreneur Heather Reisman, founder and CEO of Canada’s largest book retailer, Indigo Books & Music, and change-maker Karina Hayat, who arrived in Canada as a refugee and went on to co-found Prizm Media, a digital media and technology company that helps connect chronically ill patients with healthcare products and services.

These women, and so many others, have helped push the needle forward on progress.

Today, on International Women’s Day, I invite you to share stories about the women and girls in your life who inspire you using the hashtag #IWD2023 on social media.

Let’s continue to be motivated by incredible women who are making a difference, let’s commit to protecting women’s rights and amplifying women’s voices, and let’s work together to build a Canada where every young girl grows up not only believing but also witnessing that women can and do play leading roles in every aspect of our society.”