Celebrating International Women’s Day in Newfoundland and Labrador

March 7, 2025

On March 8, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will join organizations, groups, and individuals throughout the province and around the world celebrating International Women’s Day.

This day serves as a reminder of the incredible strides made towards gender equality, while recognizing there is still work to do. This day also honours the achievements, strengths, and resilience of women who have shaped history and who have broken barriers – from the suffragists who fought for the right to vote, to scientists, artists, and leaders of today.

The Provincial Government places a high priority on creating a society where women and girls can pursue their dreams, unlock their potential, drive innovation, and live freely from discrimination and violence.

The Canadian theme for 2025 – Strength in Every Story – is quite fitting here in Newfoundland and Labrador, as this year we celebrate the 100th anniversary of women achieving the right to vote and hold public office. On April 3, the Office of Women and Gender Equality, in partnership with the House of Assembly, will mark this extraordinary milestone, which helped shape the very foundation of our democracy. The courage of suffragists, their determination, and unwavering belief in equality paved the way for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today.

However, their journey was not an easy one. Women fought long and hard to have their voices heard in a society that often dismissed them. Women like Armine Gosling, Fannie McNeil, Lady Jeannette Thorburn, Emma Peters, Myra Campbell and Agnes Ayre, who led the suffrage movement in the then Dominion of Newfoundland, faced resistance, ridicule, and countless barriers.

Women all over Newfoundland and Labrador organized, rallied and demanded change – not just for themselves, but for future generations.

Because of their efforts, women today in Newfoundland and Labrador are leaders, decision makers, and change-makers in our municipal, provincial and federal governments, our communities, and beyond, making a difference in every aspect of life.

The Provincial Government has made significant investments to support women and girls, annually allocating funding to support women’s centres, status of women councils and other equity-seeking organizations that work to achieve equality and justice for women and girls in the province.

In December 2023, the Provincial  Government announced the signing of a four-year bilateral agreement with Women and Gender Equality Canada, resulting in $13.6 million in new funding to invest in violence-prevention-related initiatives. This is a commitment to foster an environment where everyone in this province can thrive, feel valued, be respected, and not live in fear.

The formation of the Provincial Indigenous Women’s Reconciliation Council is another positive step as it works to coordinate and lead meaningful action to address existing challenges and obstacles in the areas of culture, health and wellness, justice, and human security, which impact Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.

Ongoing investments and initiatives by the Provincial Government are also resulting in sustained benefits for women in the areas of skills development, childcare, leadership, entrepreneurship, and business funding.

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“International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress is possible when we celebrate, uplift, and empower. It is not just a day, it’s a call to action for equality, respect and recognition every day. Happy International Women’s Day to all women and girls throughout Newfoundland and Labrador.”

Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more
International Women’s Day

Office of Women and Gender Equality
2025 03 07

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