Honourable senators, I rise today to draw attention to an important yet often overlooked part of Canadian history: the Farmerettes. In a time of great need, these young women from Ontario stepped up to help keep our country going during the two world wars by working on farms. And today, I am pleased to inform you that on October 28, Canada Post unveiled a special stamp honouring the Farmerettes and their contribution during the two world wars.

As we know, war brings immense challenges. During the First World War and the Second World War, the absence of the men who had gone to fight created a serious labour shortage on Canadian farms. The demand for food, however, only increased, as it was not just those living in Canada but also our troops and allies who needed to be fed. To fill the gap, women of all ages, including girls as young as 16, were called to the fields.

The Farmerette program began during the First World War, and during the Second World War, it was revived through the Ontario Farm Service Force. These women worked long hours in the fields, planting, harvesting and performing a wide range of farm tasks essential to sustaining Canada’s food supply. They lived in camps and worked for 25 cents an hour. While their days were filled with hard work, they also formed lasting friendships and enjoyed the camaraderie of being part of such an important effort.

The Farmerettes embodied resilience, commitment and the ability to rise to the occasion. They demonstrated that women could take on the toughest challenges and make significant contributions to both agriculture and the war effort. Their work was vital not only in keeping Canadian farms running but also in showing the world that women had a rightful place in industries traditionally dominated by men.

Today, women play an increasingly critical role in agriculture, with nearly 30% of farm operators in Canada being women. The legacy of the Farmerettes lives on in the vibrant role that women continue to play in farming and agricultural innovation.

This stamp will serve as a lasting tribute to their remarkable contribution to our nation’s history. On behalf of this august chamber, I would like to thank Bonnie Sitter who has worked tirelessly over many years to have the Farmerettes acknowledged with a special stamp in Canada. Congratulations, Bonnie. Your day has come.

Honourable senators, as we prepare to see these stamps circulate, let us remember and honour the hard work and determination of the Farmerettes — women who ensured that Canada continued to thrive during some of the most challenging times in our history.

Thank you. Meegwetch.