CFUW Congratulates Prime Minister Carney, Urges Return of WAGE Minister Position

On April 30th, CFUW National President Linda Sestock sent the following message to Prime Minister Carney, congratulating him on the Liberal Party's victory and urging him to reinstate the position of Minister for Women and Gender Equality:

Available as a PDF in English and French.

Dear Prime Minister,

On behalf of CFUW (the Canadian Federation of University Women), I would like to extend sincere congratulations to you and the Liberal Party for your win in the federal election. This is a remarkable achievement, and we look forward to seeing your efforts to build a more equitable and resilient Canada in these challenging times.

CFUW is a national, self-funded organization founded in 1919 to promote women and girls’ education. Today, with 90 Clubs and over 6,700 members across Canada, we work nationally and within our communities to achieve equality and social justice. We do so by awarding over $1 million in scholarships annually, engaging in advocacy, and providing opportunities for lifelong learning. 

Prime Minister, as you are assembling your Cabinet in the coming weeks, we urge you to re-instate the position of Minister for Women and Gender Equality (WAGE). This position has existed since 1971 to ensure women’s rights, voices, and leadership are represented at the highest levels of decision making in Canada. At a time when progress towards gender equality is stalling—and even reversing—around the world, eliminating this position sends the wrong message about your government’s priorities. The Government of Canada must continue to play a visible leadership role in advancing women’s empowerment both within our nation and globally.

As written in a joint statement signed by over 400 Canadian organizations, “WAGE must retain a dedicated cabinet position. Consolidating these responsibilities into a broader portfolio undermines the focus, expertise, and resources required to tackle systemic issues effectively. Gender equality demands dedicated leadership, accountability, and sustained attention—none of which can be adequately achieved when it is treated as an afterthought within a larger, unrelated ministry.”

CFUW is eager to work with you and your Cabinet to advance equality and women’s empowerment. This work will only be possible with a strong WAGE department and a dedicated Minister. 

We sincerely thank you for your consideration, and once again, congratulations on your victory. 

Yours sincerely,

Linda Sestock

National President, CFUW

Présidente nationale, FCFDU