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On March 8, International Women's Day, we celebrate the remarkable achievements, contributions, and resilience of those who identify as women, girls and gender diverse people in Kitchener and across the globe. Today serves as an opportunity to reflect on the progress we have made while recognizing the urgent need to accelerate the work that remains to be done to advance gender equality.  

The theme for 2025, #AccelerateAction, serves as a powerful call to address the barriers that still hinder the full realization of gender equity. Across the globe, women continue to face systemic discrimination, violence and unequal opportunities. To truly accelerate progress, we must actively address these challenges. 

We acknowledge that all women do not face the same barriers or the same number of barriers. Race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, ability, and socioeconomic status all intersect to create varied experiences and degrees of oppression. When we unite in solidarity, we understand that there is no universal experience.   

Collectively, as members of the City Council, we recognize the privileged position we hold. We are committed to using this position to drive meaningful change. In support of this year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, we will continue to push for policies and initiatives that ensure inclusion and equitable opportunities to uplift and amplify the voices of women, girls and gender diverse people who are most marginalized in our city.  

Let’s take this opportunity to reaffirm our collective responsibility and commit to building a world that amplifies the voices of women of all ages, supports their rights, and works towards a future where every woman, girl and gender diverse person is treated with dignity, respect, and equity.   

Let us all come together to accelerate action, not just today but every day, in building a society where gender equity is not just an aspiration, but a reality.  

 
Councillor Christine Michaud, Ward 4 
Councillor Margaret Johnston, Ward 8 
Councillor Debbie Chapman, Ward 9 
Councillor Stephanie Stretch, Ward 10 
Mayor  Berry Vrbanovic