Elementary Teachers Celebrate International Women’s Day

March 8, 2007

Education is key to eliminating discrimination and violence

Canadians take for granted the fundamental right to education for all citizens, a right that is not available to millions of women and girls around the world.

"As our members celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, they are sobered by the fact that many women and girls around the world continue to face systemic discrimination and inequality and are denied access to an education. This restricts their choices and condemns them to a life of wasted potential," said Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario (ETFO) president Emily Noble.

"Our members call on all governments to eliminate discrimination against women and promote women’s rights and fundamental freedoms. One of the key ways to accomplish this is to guarantee the right to education to all girls worldwide.

"As teachers, we know that education is fundamental to changing the status quo. Education can empower young women and give them the skills and confidence to counter violence and discrimination," said Noble.

Noble explained that ETFO members assist the development of education worldwide by supporting teachers internationally. "Through initiatives such as ETFO’s Humanity Fund and Project Overseas and partnerships with Education International and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation, our members are making a difference."

ETFO members contribute to the Humanity Fund through payroll deductions to support children and their teachers around the world, enriching their lives and their communities.

By working with Project Overseas and the Canadian Teachers’ Federation, ETFO members are able to share their knowledge with their teacher colleagues in developing countries.

The Elementary Teachers’ Federation of Ontario represents 70,000 public elementary school teachers and education workers across Ontario and is the largest teacher federation in Canada.