Women and Gender Equality Canada is facing a possible 80% reduction in their budget - a move that would have devastating consequences on 2SLGBTQIA+ people, women and girls across Canada.
In Canada, we believe in women's rights and 2SLGBTQIA+ equality. We know that lifting up women and 2SLGBTQIA+ people leads to a healthier, happier and more free society, and a stronger economy.
We know that reduced funding for women and 2SLGBTQIA+ people will put prosperity, equality and freedom further out of reach for some of Canada's most vulnerable. That's why we are concerned by the 80% budget cut outlined in Women and Gender Equality Canada's updated Departmental Plan. In a time of rising hate, exacerbated inequality and economic upheaval, now is the time to redouble our commitment to gender equality - not to decimate crucial funding.
An 80% budget cut would gut the department's capacity to fullfill its mandate. The ripple effect in reduced funding will have devastating consequences for local 2SLGBTQIA+ and feminist organizations who rely on WAGE funding to support women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ people across Canada.
Over the past decade, Canada has made important progress and meaningful investments to advance gender equality and human rights for 2SLGBTQIA+ people. This progress will be put at risk without sustained funding. Federal WAGE funding powers local 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations across Canada, in big cities and small towns. Shelters, counselling programs, education initiatives and more will be put at risk due to these cuts. With anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate and gender-based violence on the rise across Canada, now is not the time to undermine local 2SLGBTQIA+ and feminist organizations.
Gender inequality holds everyone back. Misogyny, gender-based violence and hate have an adverse impact on our economy, our health and our democracy. Tackling gender inequality comes with abundant returns on investment: reducing violence, poverty, homelessness, and unlocking social and economic prosperity for marginalized people. These aren't "nice to have" investments: they're critical investments to build an economy and society that lifts everyone up.
Our call to action to Prime Minister Carney and Minister Retchie of Women and Gender Equality, is simple: These proposed cuts must be walked back. The fall budget and beyond must include a continued commitment in line with the election promises that brought this government into power and at the scale that this historic moment requires.