Toronto's International Women's Day calls for women to rise up

TORONTO, March 5, 2016 /CNW/ - Thousands of people took part in the annual International Women's Day rally and march through the heart of Toronto calling for action to ensure equality for all women and an end to the gender wage gap.

"As women we need to stand together and demand real change. For Aboriginal women, racialized women, for immigrant women, and for women living in poverty, we are joining together to speak out," said Jenny Ahn from the IWD Committee. "Every day, many women deal with a systemic climate of violence and hate. We demand women's safety, good jobs and community services to raise our families."

A highlight of today's events was an indoor rally featuring speakers discussing racism, colonialism and systemic injustice in Canada. One speaker addressed the need for reconciliation with Aboriginal communities and several speakers focused on the issues of justice on the job including fair pay, an end to precarious work, in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, and against islamophobia and discrimination.

"While we have a new government in Ottawa, women need more than symbolic gestures from the Liberal government. We demand meaningful reconciliation along with action to ensure Aboriginal communities have the same access to services, the same funding for schools, while still recognizing aboriginal cultures as unique and distinct," said Crystal Sinclair.

Events in Toronto and around the world celebrate International Women's Day, which is recognized by the United Nations on March 8. The day celebrates advancement in women's equality and calls for needed change to fulfill the goal of equal rights for every woman.  For more information on the International Women's Day 2016 visit www.iwdtoronto.ca

SOURCE International Women's Day Toronto (IWD Toronto)

For further information or media requests please contact: Andrea Calver, 416-434-8031; Jenny Ahn, 416-271-3489