International Women's Day 
March 8, 2008

Message from Hon. Ida Chong
Minister of Community Services and Minister Responsible for Seniors' and Women's Issues

This 31st International Women’s Day gives us an opportunity to reflect upon the achievements of women in British Columbia - and to celebrate and honour the important achievements and contributions of women around the world.

The theme for this year is ‘strong women, strong world’ – an idea with more truth than people may realize because when we empower women, we secure a brighter future for everyone.

Our approach to empowering women has been to build a strong economy to provide more opportunities for all British Columbians – including women – to succeed and build the futures they want for themselves – and it’s working.

Today, more than 60 per cent of women are participating in B.C.’s workforce – one of the highest levels of participation ever. Nearly 36 per cent of the self-employed in British Columbia were women, one of the highest rates in the country and above the national average.

To build on these successes, this government funds Empowered to Work, an initiative program that provides career mentoring to women to help them re-enter the labour force or transition into new employment or self-employment. Over 400 women in trades, business, science, technology and other professions have benefited from this initiative.

More women than ever are enrolled at the graduate level and in trade schools making up nearly 60 per cent of all students in B.C. universities and over 50 per cent of students in B.C. colleges, university colleges and institutes.

While it is always good to reflect on these accomplishments, we recognize at the same time that there are women here in B.C. facing some serious personal challenges and that is why we continue to enhance our system of supports to make a real difference in their lives.

We spend nearly $50 million each year for prevention and intervention services for women, and their children, fleeing domestic violence. This includes transition house services, safe homes, second-stage housing, counselling, and outreach and multi-cultural outreach services.

International Women’s Day celebrates the diversity, accomplishments and contributions of women in British Columbia and around the world. I encourage you to take time to acknowledge and celebrate the wonderful women around us and in our lives!

Sincerely,

Ida Chong, FCGA
Minister of Community Services
and Minister Responsible for Seniors’ and Women’s Issues

IWD Canada	IWD United Nations	IWD B.C.