On International Women’s Day, in taking the time to reflect on the gains women have made toward equality, we must also set our sights on achieving true equality for women in all areas of life.
Right now, Ontario is reviewing its employment and labour laws. Recommendations are expected in the spring, and now is the time to make sure that through the Changing Workplaces Review, employment and labour laws ensure that all workers are treated fairly, no matter their gender.
The disadvantages women face in the work world are well-documented. Women are more likely than men to have insecure jobs: jobs with low income, few workplace benefits, little job security, uncertain work scheduling, and no protection through unions.
In Ontario, women represent two-thirds of part-time workers and over 60 per cent of the 1.7 million Ontarians who earn at, or near, the minimum wage. Without a union, women are 8 times more likely to earn poverty wages. They are half as likely to have a pension at their workplace.
The Changing Workplaces Review offers an historic opportunity for the Ontario government to make meaningful legislative changes to the Employment Standards Act and the Labour Relations Act. The Ontario Federation of Labour and affiliated unions continue to mobilize labour unions to advocate for stronger employment and labour laws through its “Make It Fair” campaign, and to partner with the “Fight for 15 and Fairness” campaign.
This International Women’s Day, join with your sisters in calling for changes that will ensure Ontario’s women do not continue to suffer inequality in the work world.
Join together and demand changes that will make work fair for women across this province, and make sure every job in Ontario is a decent job.
The OFL represents 54 unions and one million workers in Ontario. For information, visit www.OFL.caand follow @OFLabour on Facebook and Twitter.
