Mr. Speaker, today is international women's day. It is a day when all countries of the world recognize, in various ways, the contributions women have made to the betterment of society.
The concept of an international women's day, recognized by the United Nations in 1977, originated 83 years ago at a meeting of the international socialist women's association. It was established at a time when women were starting to make some progress in their struggle for better wages and working conditions as well as for the right to vote in elections.
Much has happened since those early days and there is a great deal to celebrate in respect to the contributions women, from all walks of life, are making in today's world.
There are also still a great deal of challenges and problems which must be resolved in order to make sure family units and values are protected and remain strong in this period of rapid social, economic and political change.
In the Northwest Territories women are playing an increasingly strong role in identifying issues and in shaping community and territorial direction. However, this is not a job for women alone. All of us, parents, family units, churches, community leaders and government must share in the work which has to be done.
We have to work harder to help ourselves. Together, we have to develop enhanced support systems for victims of spousal assault. At the same time, we must make sure everyone understands that the chronic alcohol and substance abuse
problems, family violence and sexual abuses that are plaguing society in the Northwest Territories simply cannot be tolerated.
We also have to address other matters such as gender equality, pay equity and the need for affordable and expanded child care facilities and services, particularly for single parent families trying to raise their children and work at the same time.
Mr. Speaker, women of the north are participating as equals to help make sure that these and other problems and inequities are resolved so that all individuals have the opportunity to live a life of honour and dignity.
Whether they are involved in traditional pursuits or the wage economy, northern women are helping to make a difference in today's world and they will continue to do so every day of the year. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
---Applause