Hon. Rosa Galvez: I rise in the Senate today to mark two important international days that take place in March: International Women’s Day and World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development.

[English]

International Women’s Day is a time to reflect on the efforts that still need to be done to attain gender equality but also to celebrate the achievements of women. Achieving gender equality isn’t just a moral issue. It also makes economic sense and is good for all aspects of life from access to health and education to political power and earning potential. The most important factor in a country’s competitiveness is its human talent — the skills and innovation of its workforce. That’s why the proper participation of half the world’s population is so important for the well-being of our economy, social fabric and environment.

World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development offers us the opportunity to highlight the achievements of engineers in our modern world and to improve public understanding of how engineering and technology are central to sustainable development. Engineers are at the forefront of developing innovative solutions to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to the impacts of climate change and build resilience in our communities. We need more women in STEM fields, and for that we must end gender stereotypes, welcome and celebrate young women in engineering and promote role models and mentoring.

It is important to acknowledge that women and girls are disproportionately affected by climate change, particularly in developing countries. Women are often responsible for providing food, water and energy for their families, and climate change can exacerbate the challenges they already face. Importantly, women also play a critical role in climate action as agents of change in their communities and as leaders in science, engineering and technology.

As we celebrate these two important days, let us remember that gender equality and sustainable development go hand in hand.

By working together and harnessing the skills of women engineers, we can create a better, more equitable and sustainable world for all.

Finally, I would like to take the opportunity to invite you all to a reception hosted by Nature Canada tomorrow evening across the street — you will have received an email to that effect. I hope to see you all there. Thank you, meegwetch.