March 8, 2021
COVID-19 is the most serious public health crisis that Canada has faced. It is showing us where there are fundamental gaps in our society and shown us where it is impacting our already vulnerable and struggling populations. They are hurting and in need, many of those impacted are women and children. Women have been in the front line of this crisis, many facing job losses and many taking on more extra family responsibilities. More women are in essential jobs in this crisis, exposing them to infection and high stress. This pandemic is not over and what we need right now is just a little kindness and a little help while we see the inequality.
We can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.
I would like to challenge us all at UNE to commit to calling out inequality when we see it. Standing up for what is right. Maya Angelou said ‘’Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” It all starts with one step and we can make a difference. If COVID-19 has shown us anything, it has shown that there is still a long way to go with fighting against gender bias and promoting equality.
As the Twister Sister song We’re Not Gonna Take It says:
We’re not gonna take it
No, we ain’t gonna take it
We’re not gonna take it anymore!
Diana Walker
UNE National Equity Representative for Women