International Women’s Day began over 100 years ago as part of the global struggle for women’s equal rights, including in employment. While women have made significant gains in the workforce, progress toward gender equity has largely stalled over the past two decades. Importantly, women’s experiences in Canada are not uniform—race, ethnicity, and other social identities shape workplace opportunities and outcomes in meaningful ways.

This session examines the “stalled gender revolution” in employment through an intersectional lens. Drawing on current research and data, we will explore how gender intersects with race and ethnicity to influence workplace experiences in Canada. Participants will also discuss practical strategies that individuals and organizations can use to address systemic bias and inequity.

By the end of this session, participants will be able to:

• Define intersectionality and explain how gender, race, and ethnicity interact to shape workplace outcomes.
• Describe at least two structural factors that contribute to racial and ethnic inequities in employment.
• Identify examples of implicit and systemic bias in workplace settings.
• Apply at least one evidence-informed strategy to reduce bias and promote equity within their own professional context.