City leaders say “Give to Gain” theme highlights need for sustained commitment to opportunity and inclusion
KITCHENER, Ont. — The City of Kitchener’s mayor and council are marking International Women’s Day with a renewed call for action on gender equity, emphasizing that meaningful progress requires sustained commitment from governments, organizations and individuals alike.
In a statement released Saturday, city leaders recognized the contributions of women, girls and gender-diverse people in the community while acknowledging that significant systemic barriers remain. The message aligns with the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” which focuses on the importance of investing in opportunity and inclusion to strengthen communities.
“Today, we join communities around the world in recognizing International Women’s Day and celebrating the transformative contributions, achievements, and resilience of women, girls, and gender diverse people in Kitchener and across the globe,” the statement said. “This day is both a moment of celebration and a reminder of the ongoing work required to advance gender equity in meaningful and lasting ways.”
Municipal leaders said the theme underscores the need for tangible action rather than symbolic recognition. According to the statement, progress on gender equality requires a willingness to provide resources, recognition and opportunities to people who have historically faced barriers.
“This year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain,’ is a reminder that progress demands action,” the statement said. “When we give, whether it be through opportunity, recognition, resources, or simply creating space, we gain stronger, more inclusive communities where everyone feels they belong.”
At the same time, the statement acknowledged that many women continue to face structural inequities, including discrimination and violence, as well as limited access to economic and social opportunities. City officials stressed that addressing those issues requires intentional policy choices and a broad community effort.
“However, we know that women continue to face systemic discrimination, gender-based violence, and inequitable access to opportunities,” the statement said. “To truly ‘give to gain,’ we must confront these realities with intention, courage, and sustained commitment. Progress does not happen on its own; it requires action from each one of us.”
Municipal leaders also highlighted the role that businesses, community organizations and residents can play in supporting gender equality, both in the workplace and across broader civic life.
“Organizations, groups, and individuals worldwide can all play a part – in the community, at work, at home, and beyond,” the statement said.
The city’s message also addressed the importance of recognizing how different identities shape people’s experiences. Officials noted that barriers to equality are often compounded by factors such as race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, disability and income level.
“We also recognize that the experiences of women are not universal,” the statement said. “Race, culture, religion, sexual orientation, ability, and socioeconomic status intersect to create different barriers and different forms of oppression.”
City leaders added that acknowledging these intersecting challenges is essential for building more equitable communities and designing policies that address the needs of diverse residents.
“Understanding these intersections strengthens our resolve to build a city where equity is not assumed but actively pursued,” the statement said.
Despite ongoing challenges, the statement expressed optimism that progress is possible when governments and institutions commit resources and attention to gender equality initiatives.
“Increasingly around the world, we are seeing that significant barriers to gender equality persist, yet with dedicated resources and support, positive progress has been made, can be made, and will continue to be made,” the statement said.
The message concluded with a pledge from the mayor and councillors to continue advancing policies and initiatives aimed at expanding opportunity and strengthening inclusion within the city.
“We know that serving in a public office comes with great responsibility, and we are committed to using that responsibility to advance real, lasting progress,” the statement said. “We will continue championing efforts that expand opportunity, strengthen inclusion, and ensure that women, girls and gender diverse people are heard, supported, and uplifted.”
The statement was issued by Ward 4 Councillor Christine Michaud, Ward 8 Councillor Margaret Johnston, Ward 9 Councillor Debbie Chapman, Ward 10 Councillor Stephanie Stretch, and Mayor Berry Vrbanovic on behalf of Kitchener City Council.