This week millions of women and men around the world are marking International Women’s Week and celebrating the progress that has been made toward gender equality. Our government is pleased to join Canadians in recognizing Canadian women and the enormous strides that they have made.

Canada’s theme for International Women’s Week 2010 is Strong Women, Strong Canada, Strong World. This theme reflects the Government of Canada’s firm belief that increasing women’s participation and access to leadership roles and opportunities will help women reach their full potential, while building a more prosperous country.

In Canada, women continue to make progress. The House of Commons currently has 67 members that are women and our Government has the highest percentage of women in Cabinet in Canadian history. Women are also increasing their participation in other aspects of Canadian life. Currently, women make up the majority of full-time students in most university faculties.  The labour force participation rate for working-age women (15-64 years of age) has risen from 68.2 per cent to 74.3 per cent over the past decade (1997-2008). In 2007, women made up 35 per cent of all self-employed individuals and there has also been a long-term increase in the share of women who are working in managerial positions. In 2007, 35 per cent of those employed in managerial positions were women.

Canadian women have made great strides and our Government is committed to working on issues to advance their economic security and prosperity, while at the same time, continuing to encourage their leadership and democratic participation.  The Canadian Government is also committed to ensuring the safety of women and girls and working towards ending violence against them.

Let us all take the time this week to remember and celebrate the accomplishments of Canadian women and recognize the historical importance of International Women’s Week to renew awareness of the ongoing worldwide struggle to advance the human rights of women.