Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Some of my colleagues have mentioned that today is International Women's Day. Mr. Speaker, in these modern times, we often hear about how good women have it. On the surface, no doubt, it is true. Women can vote, women can work and women can take an active role in our society today.
However, Mr. Speaker, I want all Members to take time to think about the realities of a woman's place in society. Some men say it jokingly but some say it sincerely, that every day is women's day. In some places in our society, this is true and there are many men who respect their spouses and treat them as equals. I commend them for that.
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However, Mr. Speaker, as a whole, the idea that women are treated with respect and equality reflects an ideal world, and we know we don't live in such an ideal world. When we look at our communities, we see women who are facing difficult situations daily.
Women face violence, physically, mentally and emotionally. Women face intimidation from men who are not comfortable sharing an equal standing with women. Women face the difficulties of single parenting, of providing for a strong family life and have primary responsibilities for child care. Women even face the difficulty of acquiring pay equity which I know is still an outstanding issue to be addressed by this government.
Mr. Speaker, when we look around this Assembly, there are only three women Members of this Assembly. It is not that women aren't good leaders, Mr. Speaker. When we look at the community governments, there are many women leaders. Most community organizations are run by women.
Mr. Speaker, I believe it is at times difficult for women to get into politics at the territorial level in particular. Aside from the issues of intimidation and child care, women have to deal with being away from their families, and it makes it much more difficult when we have children.
Mr. Speaker, I seek unanimous consent to continue with my statement.