Mar 5, 2009

IWD commitments on my wish list

By Adrienne Montani

With International Women’s Day on the horizon this weekend, I’m looking for some commitments. Women are over-represented in low-wage work. So which party in the upcoming election will commit to an investment in BC’s social capital through a living wage policy for the public sector, including public contractors? Stimulating the local economy and adding to tax revenue through ensuring low paid workers have a bit more money to spend – that’s something I’d vote for!

And while we’re at it, how about a commitment to an affordable, universal child care program ala Quebec, so more parents, especially women, can join or stay in the workforce?

These would be two of the best investments and economic recovery policies, if we’re thinking long term. Any takers candidates?

Topics: Children & youth, Employment & labour, Poverty, inequality & welfare, Women

Like What You Read?

Connect with us

About the author

Adrienne Montani

Adrienne has lived, worked and been a social justice activist in Vancouver since 1976. She joined First Call: BC Child and Youth Advocacy Coalition in 2000 and became the provincial coordinator in 2005. Prior to working with First Call, she served as the child and youth advocate for the City of Vancouver, and as the chairperson of the Vancouver School Board for three of her six years as an elected school trustee. Some of her earlier leadership positions included serving as the executive director of Surrey Delta Immigrant Services Society and of Big Sisters of BC Lower Mainland.

Adrienne has a long-standing interest in the issues of cross-cultural awareness and racism, women’s rights and the impacts of social exclusion on children and youth in low-income families. Her academic background is in Asian studies and adult education.

We deliver timely, progressive commentary on issues that affect British Columbians, including the economy, poverty, inequality, climate change, provincial budgets, taxes, public services, employment and much more.

Home

A progressive take on BC issues

A progressive take on BC issues

IWD commitments on my wish list

IWD commitments on my wish list

You might also like:

Child care unaffordability in Canada’s cities and what to do about it

My “Universal Child Care Benefit” has evaporated to a parallel universe