The United States and Canada’s Government have reaffirmed their commitment to removing systemic barriers to advance gender equity and equality in around the world.
These countries in a separate statement released while celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8th, said by reinforcing gender equity and equality, countries will strengthen their stability, prosperity, security, and democracy.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau said the country celebrate and recognize the achievements of women and girls and reaffirmed his commitment to removing systemic barriers to advance gender equality in Canada and around the world.
Speaking about this year’s theme, “Every Woman Counts”, he stated that this is a reminder that all women, from all ages and walks of life, have a place in every aspect of Canadian society.
“With a disturbing recent rise in anti-transgender hate here in Canada, we reiterate today that trans women are women and we will always stand up to hate whenever and wherever it occurs.
“When we invest in empowering women and girls, we help entire families, communities, and societies succeed. That is why increasing women’s participation in the work force and closing the gender wage gap has long been a key priority for the Government of Canada.
“On this International Women’s Day, I invite all Canadians to amplify the voices of women and girls, celebrate their enormous contributions in every aspect of Canadian society, and stand up for a more equal and equitable world”, Trudeau said.
United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken on the other hand said on International Women’s Day, the United States stands with the international community in celebrating the tenacity, determination.
“And leadership of women and girls around the world and the immense contributions and accomplishments they achieve toward more peaceful and democratic societies.
“The Department of State is committed to empowering and amplifying the voices of women and girls in all their diversity, and we will continue to demand that their human rights be respected.
Secretary Blinken who joined the First Lady, Jill Biden in hosting the 17th annual International Women of Courage (IWOC) Awards, honored 11 women leaders from around the world.
“In their local communities and countries, the 2023 IWOC awardees promoting the human rights of members of marginalized communities, protecting the rule of law, informing the public from the center of conflicts, and advancing women’s leadership and gender equality.
“The 2023 IWOC awardees join a cohort of more than 180 women, from more than 80 countries, who live their lives in the service of others – regardless of the personal risks and sacrifices as International Women of Courage”, he said.
The Secretary noted that United States remain committed to doubling State and USAID foreign assistance investments that promote gender equality worldwide, to $2.6 billion in FY 2023, consistent with the President’s Budget Request.
“Today, and every day, the United States celebrates women and girls across the globe and continues to advance our efforts to promote gender equity and equality for the benefit of all”, Secretary of State, Blinken said.