QUEEN’S PARK — Mike Schreiner released the following statement to mark International Women’s Day.
“International Women’s Day is an important opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women and gender-diverse people around the world.
From my family to my team to my colleagues in Guelph and at Queen’s Park, I am grateful to work alongside so many smart, strong women dedicated to making Ontario a better place to live.
International Women’s Day began in the labour movement as a chance for women to come together to demand political and economic advancements.
Today, we must keep that spirit of advocacy alive by continuing to demand better for women and gender-diverse people in Ontario.
Sectors like nursing, teaching, and carework are primarily led by women and gender-diverse people.
These are the people who work tirelessly to care for us and our loved ones, even in the face of unprecedented challenges. They deserve to be treated with respect and dignity.
And yet these are the same people who have been overworked, underpaid and denied the right to bargain for fair wages under the Ford government.
So, on International Women’s Day, I’m calling for members of all parties to stand up for workers in women-led sectors. That begins with dropping the court appeal of Bill 124. And making policy decisions that advance the social, economic and political rights of women every day, here at Queen’s Park.”