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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge International Women’s Day held on March 8th to celebrate women’s social, cultural, and political achievements throughout history and across nations. International Women’s Day also provides the opportunity to showcase commitments towards gender equality, raise awareness of the gaps that persist, and highlight initiatives that promote gender equity.

The 2026 theme for International Women's Day is Give to Gain, encouraging generosity and collaboration to advance gender equality. This theme emphasizes the power of mutual support, and supporting women through resources, time, and mentorship. Give to Gain emphasizes the importance of giving attention and effort to gender equity to gain long-term equality. Contributing to women's advancement helps create a more supportive and interconnected world. When women thrive, we all rise.

Mr. Speaker, gender inequality remains deeply entrenched in our society despite decades of effort. Progress has been hard won in areas like economic participation, political representation, and combating gender-based violence. We need collective action to protect these gains, and to prevent backsliding on women rights, access to equitable services, advancement in the workplace, in educational spaces, and in society.

The young women and girls of today will be the leaders of tomorrow. We need to support them so they can reach their full potential. Providing better access for women to education, suitable housing, healthcare, employment, and childcare not only supports women, but it benefits society by helping to build a sustainable economy and strengthened support networks. When we address the gaps along the social service continuum, we do our part to ensure all women and girls can achieve their full potential.

Mr. Speaker, we recognize that women face ingrained societal hurdles, systemic barriers and gender-based discrimination.  These obstacles perpetuate a cycle of gender inequality. We must work together to develop and implement strategies to prevent violence against women and girls. We must dismantle systems that disadvantage women, and we must keep updating our policies and programs, so they truly support to promote the advancement of women in leadership positions. We must ensure that services are equitable, and that we remain committed to keeping women and girls safe here in the Northwest Territories. This work is ongoing, but I believe we can continue to make meaningful progress.

Give to Gain is a global call to action. It is an invitation to contribute what you can, whether that is your support, your time, or your knowledge. It highlights how personal commitment, paired with coordinated efforts, can meaningfully elevate and amplify the focus on gender equality.

I thank all women across the Northwest Territories for their invaluable contributions to our communities, our families, and our workplaces today and every day. Women have always given to gain, and they continue to do so in a million unseen ways. This translates into strong families, connected communities, and healthy environments. I encourage everyone to give strategically on this International Women’s Day, and make targeted contributions to women’s events, causes, services, and gender equity advocacy. When women thrive, we all rise. I invite each Member of the Legislative Assembly to join me in recognizing International Women’s Day 2026.

Quyanainni, Mr. Speaker.