International Day of Rural Women

October 15, 2026

WHEREAS:the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury recognizes the important contributions of rural women to the strength, well-being and sustainability of families, communities and economies around the world; and

WHEREAS: rural women play a vital role in agriculture, food production, entrepreneurship, caregiving, environmental stewardship and community leadership, helping to support food security and sustainable development; and

WHEREAS: the International Day of Rural Women raises awareness of the significant contributions of rural women while highlighting the ongoing barriers they face, including unequal access to land, financial resources, technology, public services and decision-making opportunities; and

WHEREAS: the Simcoe Area Women’s Institute and Tec-We-Gwill Women’s Institute support rural and small-town women, families and communities through education, personal growth, leadership development, and social and environmental advocacy; and

WHEREAS: recognizing and empowering rural women is essential to advancing equality, strengthening communities and ensuring that their knowledge, experience and leadership are valued and represented;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:
 I, Mayor James Leduc, on behalf of Bradford West Gwillimbury Council, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2026, as “International Day of Rural Women” in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury and encourage all residents to recognize and celebrate the achievements, contributions and leadership of rural women in our community and around the world.