Despite the progress women have made in Nova Scotia, they still face many obstacles.
The Advisory council on the Status of Women aims to increase women in public leadership roles, and promote economic security, safety and freedom from violence and women’s health and wellbeing.
“We work diligently in carrying out these goals and know we are not there yet, as women continue to face barriers in all streams,” said Doreen Paris, former chairperson of the council and New Glasgow resident.
Paris spoke at the advisory council’s meet and greet event, March 5, in celebration of International Women’s Day.
Current chairperson Jean d’Entremont spoke as well. She said the reason the council holds meet and greets is to become more visible to women and let the public know what they do.
“It is very difficult to get younger women involved in the council,” says d’Entremont. “Younger women have their families and when you have a family you are a chauffeur, you are a doctor, you are everything.”
d’Entremont added as women grow older and have more time for themselves, they become more involved with the council.
New Glasgow Mayor Barrie MacMillan spoke of the accomplishments of women in the Vancouver Winter Olympics, and Pictou Centre MLA and Justice Minister Ross Landry commented on the Justices Department is expanding resources to reduce domestic violence.
“It is going to be a busy year working for women and their families in these difficult and uncertain times,” says d’Entremont. “We need to stick together and work together in Nova Scotia.”
International Women’s Day falls on March 8 and is globally recognized as a day of celebrating women.