AIDS is a gender issue, particularly in Africa. Women and girls – through risk of sexual violence, or early and forced marriage, or through a general lack of awareness about AIDS, including transmission risks and protection measures – are at unique risk.
On Monday, September 20th, Canadians will go to the polls to elect our next federal government. Opinion surveys suggest it is a very close race. While international development has not garnered the attention it deserves, issues affecting women and equality have, including climate change, vaccination, and gun control.
This week, I am reflecting on civic responsibility and my role as a citizen as Canada marks National Volunteer Week. As the theme for the week, The Value of One, The Power of Many, underscores, we can – and we must – each contribute to changing the world. In particular, I respectfully suggest it is time for men to step up.