Equality is not optional.
Wilbur Turner, President of Advocacy Canada
As Canada prepares for a new chapter under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, there is both optimism and urgency in the air. With the challenges we face—from economic instability to the erosion of human rights globally—our next federal government must reflect a deep commitment to equality, justice, and inclusion. That’s why Advocacy Canada is joining the call for the establishment of a full Minister for Women and Gender Equality in the new cabinet.
This isn’t a symbolic ask. It’s a crucial move toward ensuring that the voices and needs of women, girls, and gender-diverse people are at the forefront of national policy—especially at a time when those communities are increasingly under attack.
A Dedicated Voice in Cabinet
While progress was made in the last government, the increasing threats to gender equality demand more than partial attention or shared responsibilities. Canada needs a dedicated, full cabinet minister—someone with the authority, resources, and mandate to lead policy and action on gender-based violence, economic inequality, healthcare access, 2SLGBTQIA+ rights, and more.
This call is powerfully echoed by Momentum Canada, which has launched a campaign urging Mark Carney to commit to appointing such a minister. Advocacy Canada stands in full support of this initiative.
Why It Matters Now
The current landscape makes this appointment more urgent than ever:
- Rates of gender-based violence remain alarmingly high, especially among Indigenous, racialized, and trans women.
- Economic disparities continue to leave women, particularly single mothers and marginalized workers, behind.
- The 2SLGBTQIA+ community is facing a rising tide of political scapegoating, hate crimes, and legislative attacks—both in Canada and globally.
- Access to gender-affirming care, reproductive healthcare, and safe housing remains uneven and often politicized.
Having a full minister at the table signals that these issues are not afterthoughts—they are central to the direction of the country.
More Than Representation—Action
This is not just about representation. It’s about giving the work of equality and justice the institutional power it deserves. A minister for Women and Gender Equality could:
- Lead national strategies to combat gender-based violence
- Oversee implementation of gender-responsive budgeting and policy
- Ensure coordinated, cross-departmental action on intersectional equality
- Serve as a clear voice against anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate and misinformation
A Chance to Lead Globally
With democracies around the world retreating from gender rights and diversity protections, Canada has an opportunity—and a responsibility—to lead. Mark Carney, an economist with a global reputation and progressive values, is well positioned to show the world that equality is not optional—it’s essential to a healthy, thriving democracy.
Appointing a Minister for Women and Gender Equality would be a bold, values-driven first step.
Add Your Voice
We urge our supporters, allies, and partners across the country to join us in advocating for this critical cabinet position. Visit Momentum Canada’s campaign to learn more and send your message directly to the Prime Minister’s transition team.
We can all help ensure the next chapter of Canadian leadership includes real, lasting commitment to gender justice—not just in words, but in the makeup and mandate of our federal cabinet.
