At Women General Counsel Canada (WGCC) we recognize that International Women’s Day is one of the most important days of the year, as it is marked annually to celebrate women’s achievements and raise awareness about women’s equality.  Today is a call to action for accelerating gender equality.  This year’s campaign theme is #ChooseToChallenge and we know that our members are in a unique position: 

•       to choose to challenge,
•       to call out gender bias and inequality,
•       to celebrate each other’s achievements, and 
•       to help create inclusive workplaces and communities.

The events of this past year have showed us the importance of taking an opportunity to reflect, reset and have the courage to challenge the status quo and push boundaries to make the world a better place, for everyone.  Women across the globe have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic; the results of which will be felt for generations.  Now, more than ever, it is time to have those uncomfortable conversations about what an equitable world looks like and the concentrated effort needed to dismantle systemic barriers.

Today gives us an opportunity to celebrate and reflect on our achievements.  Today we give a shout out to, and celebrate, the amazing women in general counsel and legal executive roles that make-up our membership. Women who continue to champion and encourage each other as we continue to grow and develop as authentic, courageous and effective leaders.

But we must also keep the conversation and the work going each and every day.  Encouraging and improving diversity and inclusion is fundamental to and greatly valued by WGCC.  As such, we are raising our hands high to show our commitment to choose to challenge inequality and to call out bias.  Together we can all help create inclusive workplaces and communities.