On International Women’s Day, we acknowledge the progress we’ve made in working towards gender equality, while recognizing that there is more important work to do. The City of Toronto is committed to building an equitable and inclusive city, free from discrimination, stereotypes and bias, where women, girls and gender diverse people can thrive.
Celebrate International Women’s Day with events and activities across the city during the month of March.
WHEREAS today on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the many incredible achievements of all women in Toronto and around the world. We also celebrate the hard work and activism of all those who continue to help to make the world a more equitable place.
International Women’s Day is a time to recognize that all women need to be well-represented in every facet of our society. Achieving gender equality and incorporating both cis and trans women’s well-being in all aspects of life is crucial for creating prosperous and just societies that benefit everyone.
We can take action to help unlock all women’s and girls’ full range of human rights and foster empowerment, by ensuring inclusive access to education, employment, leadership and decision-making spaces. We can also work to elevate the voices of equity deserving women and girls and create opportunities that encourage and support them in taking the lead. The next generation, particularly young women and girls can be incredible catalysts for change.
We recognize the systemic barriers and entrenched inequities and the consequences of past policies and restrictions that continue to impact cis and trans women today. These impacts are felt to a greater degree by Indigenous, Black, racialized, immigrant and low-income women, 2SLGBTQ+ communities, women with disabilities and lone parent families. In challenging the status quo, we can help spur the changes needed to build a society that embraces and celebrates all of its diverse members.
The City of Toronto’s Gender Equity Unit continues to work towards equitable policy, program and service planning for women, girls and gender diverse people who make up at least 52 per cent of Toronto’s population.
On International Women’s Day, we acknowledge the progress that has been made in working towards gender equality, while recognizing that important steps forward are still needed to create a world where everyone feels welcomed, valued and celebrated.
NOW THEREFORE, I, Mayor Olivia Chow, on behalf of Toronto City Council do hereby proclaim March 8, 2025 as “International Women’s Day” in the City of Toronto.