Gender Equality Week: Message from the Defence Team Champion for Women

September 21, 2021 - Defence Stories

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Rear-Admiral Rebecca Patterson, Defence Champion for Women

Gender Equality Week is a reminder that all of us in Defence—women, men, non-binary people and people of all gender identities—benefit from gender equality initiatives as it can lead to greater health, happiness, and economic prosperity for all people.

The theme for this year’s Gender Equality Week is “Advancing gender equality for all". This week celebrates the progress Canada has made to date in gender equality, while reflecting how everyone – regardless of their gender – can reach their full potential. This is a timely message as we know that the pandemic has intensified the economic disparity that many women around the world experience both globally and here in Canada. Women have had to rearrange their work obligations while taking on the majority of responsibilities at home.

As the Defence Champion for Women, I want to emphasize that women in Defence are recognized as national leaders who are spearheading Defence goals. They are in significant roles that were previously inaccessible to women in Defence. This week is one to celebrate these accomplishments and to inspire women and all Defence Team members to continue to achieve the highest levels in our organization.

So how do we help advance gender equality in Defence? Simple, it starts with us – as a team – and as leaders - promoting an inclusive, supportive, professional and respectful climate where all Defence team members feel like they belong while maintaining balance between home and the workplace.

Know that you are valued as equal members of our team and that you are appreciated for all that you do.

Happy Gender Equality Week.

Rear-Admiral Rebecca Patterson
Defence Champion for Women