Today, the Commission was pleased to receive the Follow up Report to the Canadian Human Rights Commission on the Human Rights of the Innu of Labrador. This third report on the Human Rights of the Innu of Labrador builds on two previous reports on the rights of the Innu, issued in 1993 and 2002.

Opening Remarks of the Pay Equity Commissioner to the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, Karen Jensen, Federal Pay Equity Commissioner,
Canadian Human Rights Commission

Today, the Chief Commissioner of the Canadian Human Rights Commission and the federal Pay Equity Commissioner welcome the timeline for the coming into force of the Pay Equity Act, which will ensure equal pay for work of equal value. This new law is an important tool in promoting gender equality, closing the gender wage gap and contributing to greater equity and inclusion in Canada.

Ms. Jensen is an experienced lawyer who has represented clients in human rights law, constitutional law, and employment and labour law cases for over 25 years. She has provided legal advice and representation before all levels of Canada’s courts and tribunals. She has investigated and advised organizations on diverse issues such as allegations of sexual harassment, professional misconduct, and compliance with constitutional, international and domestic human rights requirements.

Today, on International Women’s Day, we celebrate women and recognize their invaluable contributions to family, community, country and the world. Canadian women continue to be a driving force in our country — as community-builders, business leaders, innovators, educators, scientists, mothers, and frontline workers.

We live in a time of turmoil and uncertainty. But, amidst the challenge, we have a great opportunity to rebuild the economy, strengthen businesses and promote worker well-being using tools that have been proven to work. Closing the gender wage gap is one of those tools.

Today marks the first time that countries around the world are recognizing International Equal Pay Day.

The COVID-19 crisis is having a disproportionate impact on women. There is a serious risk that the pandemic could erase the gains that have been made towards gender equality in Canada.

We stand together in solidarity, grief and pain with the Cowessess First Nation of Saskatchewan over this latest discovery of hundreds upon hundreds of unmarked children’s graves at the former Marieval residential school site. We stand with residential school survivors and their families, Indigenous leaders and the entire Cowessess First Nation.