Canadian Social Issues: Gender Inequality and Government Response

This assignment examines the issue of gender inequality in Canada, focusing on the social disparities and the responses of the Canadian government. The assignment begins by highlighting the existing inequalities, including the income gap between men and women and the prevalence of violence against women. It then delves into the actions taken by the government and other organizations to address these issues, such as the implementation of laws and regulations, the establishment of support systems, and the promotion of equal opportunities. The analysis covers the role of the police and other agencies in preventing gender-based violence and abuse, and discusses the effectiveness of these measures. The assignment also touches upon the debate surrounding the implementation of federal laws aimed at protecting women, particularly those who are newcomers to Canada. The overall aim is to understand the complexities of gender inequality and the strategies employed to mitigate its effects within the Canadian context.

Activity 1:
Inequality in the Canadian society can be witnessed on two major grounds i.e. gender and income
levels. Although inequality is decreasing in Canada; however, the difference in the social inequalities
is still significant. The income share of the top level 1% Canadians is noted to be 11% in the
economy. At the same time, even though the government has initiated several regulations to equate
the gender gaps but still a large difference in opportunities for women can be identified. Statistics
revealed that at least 1 woman is killed in 6 days by her partner in the country. The inequality is
known to be costing lives. There is also a high-level payment gap between men and women for the
same job in the private sectors. The Women and Gender Equality Act is the foremost action taken by
the government to fix the problem (Nakhaie, et. al., 2007).
Activity 2:
Based on the information acquired, it was learnt that the Canadian government, the police and
several NGOs are taking steps in the direction to improve the gender inequalities in the society. The
workbook and other resources reflect that helpline numbers, regulations and other monitoring
activities are undertaken to assure women of their safety. Women are offered protection if they
register a complaint or give information on the domestic violence that they face. Furthermore,
regular monitoring of the private organizations is done to ensure that equal pay is given to women as
compared to men and opportunities are presented as well. Companies are asked to make it mandatory
to give prominence to women participation.
References:
Nakhaie, M. R., Smylie, L. and Arnold, R. (2007). Social Inequalities, Social Capital and Health of
Canadians. Review of Radical Political Economics, 39(4).