YMCA Canada

YMCA Canada Statement on International Women’s Day 2025


YMCA Canada observes International Women’s Day by celebrating the diverse contributions of women trailblazers in YMCAs across Canada and beyond. The stories of our women leaders remind us of the ongoing journey toward gender equality. In particular, they remind us that women’s lives are intersectional and that it is necessary to uplift the voices of all women, particularly those with lived experiences of marginalization due to inequalities based on race, class, sexuality, ableism, and other forms of discrimination.

Text: International Women’s Day. Image: a drawing of 5 different women representing different racial backgrounds.

While we celebrate, we also reflect on our responsibilities to promote gender inclusion in our facilities and workplaces. The attacks on trans women from some groups remind us that we must uphold our dedication to creating spaces where every woman, of every background can thrive and show up as their whole selves. Join us in embracing the richness of diversity and working towards a more equitable and inclusive future. Happy International Women’s Day to all women.

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    Jill’s Story: Four Decades of Giving Back 

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    For Tyler Patterson, a Wolastoqey Language Advocate and member of the YMCA Youth Council, leadership means turning learning into action. The Wolastoqey language, like countless other Indigenous languages across Canada, is critically endangered. With well below 100 fluent speakers who are all above the age of 65, the time to act is now. Read Tyler’s full story here.