Women have made great strides in recent years. Last fall, Statistics Canada reported that for the first time, women outnumbered men in the workforce at 50.9% of all workers. They continue to start businesses at a rate much higher than men, and count for 35% of all self-employed entrepreneurs.

A record number of female Cabinet Ministers have been appointed by Prime Minister Stephen Harper.  However, in terms of elected representation at all levels, there is still much room for improvement. The number of women in leadership roles lags compared to men within the public sector, corporate world and all levels of government. I would like to see this improved.

The Experiences mentorship program facilitated by a national organization called Equal Voice, is helping to bridge the gap. In this program, girls and young women interested in engaging in political and democratic issues are invited to interact with mentors from all levels of government and business. I have a young lady right now gaining valuable experience in my Ottawa office through this program.

The research and consultations carried out by Equal Voice show that one of the most effective ways to achieve the goal of having more women involved in public life is to start talking to them about it when they are young. I am a regular speaker at our local elementary and secondary schools where I encourage youth, especially females, to consider politics in their future. Since opening my constituency office in November of 2008 I have regularly welcomed co-op students from our local high schools. So far three bright young women have gained valuable insights into our civic and democratic processes in this capacity.  

Status of Women Canada has designated women in leadership roles as one of its three areas of focus. The Women's Community Fund component of the Women's Program administered by the Status of Women has funding available for incorporated non-profit or private organizations with quality programs that help achieve this objective. The Women’s Community Fund improves the advancement of all women in Canadian society by encouraging effective programming at the community level. Projects in the three priority areas of: ending violence against women and girls; improving women and girls' economic security and prosperity, and; encouraging women and girls in leadership and decision-making roles, are given preference.

An application form and information guide for the 2010-2011 fiscal year are now available on the Status of Women Canada website at www.swc-cfc.gc.ca along with a full list of last year’s projects.

My doors are always open for any resident interested in getting involved in the democratic process. I encourage those interested in this, or any other issue, to contact my office at 905-953-7515 or by email at Brown.L@parl.gc.ca.

Lois Brown is the Member of Parliament for Newmarket-Aurora, and a member of the House of Commons Standing Committees on Transport, Infrastructure & Communities, and the Status of Women.