Gender Equality Week: A Call to Action for Calgary

This Gender Equality Week, we at the Women In Need Society of Calgary (WINS) want to highlight critical issues that demand our collective attention and action.

Did you know that a woman in Alberta earns only 68 cents for every dollar a man makes doing the equivalent job? This wage gap places Alberta as the worst in Canada regarding pay equity. Additionally, our province has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the country, ranking third behind Saskatchewan and Manitoba. (Source)

These statistics are alarming, especially considering that Alberta's population is almost evenly split between men and women, with males accounting for approximately 50.3% and females 49.7%—a difference of around 27,600 more men than women. (Source)

At WINS (Women In Need Society) , we are dedicated to supporting women as they work to get back on their feet, but real change requires more than individual efforts; it needs widespread awareness and collective action. Until these facts become common knowledge, progress will remain an uphill battle.

Let's come together to change these realities within Calgary and Alberta. Together, we can do better.

Here are three ways you can support gender equality through WINS, along with resources for further information:

Get Involved with WINS

• Donate Funds: Your generosity helps fund programs that empower women in our community.
• Shop Our Stores: Your purchases directly fund WINS Community programs that support women and their families.
• Volunteer Your Time: Join WINS as a volunteer. Your skills and time can make a difference in supporting women to achieve self-sufficiency.

Learn More: Visit our website at www.winsyyc.ca to find out how you can get involved.

Educate and Advocate

• Raise Awareness: Educate yourself about the gender wage gap and issues like domestic violence in Alberta. Organizations like Statistics Canada provide data and reports on these topics.
• Support Women's Foundations: Visit the Canadian Women's Foundation to learn about national efforts to advance gender equality and how you can contribute.
• Share Information: Discuss with your friends, families, and co-workers, and use your social platforms to share statistics and stories to increase public awareness.

Promote Equality in Your Environment

• Champion Equal Opportunities: In your workplace or community groups, encourage practices that promote equal opportunities for all genders. This includes fair hiring practices, equal pay for equal work, and inclusive leadership roles.
• Mentor and Support: Offer mentorship or support to women in your professional or personal circles. Empowering others through guidance and encouragement fosters a culture of equality.
• Engage with Local Organizations: Connect with local advocacy groups working towards gender equality, such as WINS, The Women's Centre of Calgary , and YW Calgary to name a few.

By taking these steps and utilizing these resources, you contribute to creating a more equitable and supportive community because together, EVERYONE wins.

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