SENATORS’ STATEMENTS — International Women’s Day

Honourable senators, I rise today to speak about International Women’s Day, which was March 8. The 1970 Report of the Royal Commission on the Status of Women in Canada made making women in public life a priority and 45 years after this report was published, the House of Commons cabinet achieved gender parity. Let’s not wait for another 45 years to create a more inclusive and representative Parliament.

The topic of women in politics is often limited to elected and appointed officials. I wish to pay tribute to the women in politics who the public does not see, including women in our offices and in each directorate within our legislative, legal and corporate sectors throughout Parliament, the Senate, House of Commons and the Library of Parliament. We are held up by powerful, strong women, for whom I am full of admiration and gratitude.

I wish to recognize one particularly outstanding woman whose birthday also happens to be International Women’s Day, my director of parliamentary affairs, Julie Flannery. Julie was recently recognized at the Service Milestone Awards Ceremony for her 15-plus years of outstanding service in the Senate of Canada. Any of you who have had the pleasure of working with Julie knows about her deep commitment and passion for federal politics, as well as her keen interest in women’s issues and autism spectrum disorder. In addition to supporting my work, Julie is also a valuable mentor for members of Team Preston, sharing institutional knowledge and supporting her colleagues at different stages of their careers.

Honourable colleagues, this International Women’s Day — or month — I challenge you to examine how you support women in politics. Supporting women in leadership and in government is a collective responsibility. Look beyond International Women’s Day to consider how you can use your influence to support all women, especially women who are interested in pursuing careers in the public sector. Thank you.