Canada honours rural communities on International Women’s Day

Canada is honouring its rural, remote and northern communities for International Women’s Day on Thursday.

The country’s theme “Strong Women, Strong Canada” recognizes how the three million women and girls in those areas are vital to their success.

“In rural and remote areas, women make up approximately 45 per cent of the labour force, but significant gaps still exist between women and men in labour force participation rates, employment rates and income,” reads a statement on the Status of Women Canada website.

“These trends are more pronounced for Aboriginal women, who make up a large part of the rural, remote and Northern population.”

Events in Toronto include speeches, networking and Tahitian dance.

International Women’s Day — a national holiday in China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria — marks the achievements of women and considers continued injustice. Google marked the day with a special doodle.

Last year marked the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day.

Mayor Rob Ford’s International Women’s Day proclamation:

March 8, 2012

Whereas in 1977, the United Nations proclaimed March 8 as International Women’s Day to commemorate the 145 women killed in a fire at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company in New York City on March 25, 1911.

International Women’s Day is observed around the world and is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in advancing women’s equality. It is also a time to acknowledge the challenges women still face today.

Toronto City Council remains committed to the elimination of inequality and all forms of discrimination. The City, along with the people of Toronto, will continue to promote a caring and compassionate society in which everyone has the right to live with dignity, peace and respect.

Now therefore, I, Mayor Rob Ford, on behalf of Toronto City Council, do hereby proclaim March 8, 2012 as “International Women’s Day” to celebrate the achievements of women and their ongoing contribution to the success and vitality of our city.

Mayor Rob Ford

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