The provincial government is working to improve gender equality through the Status of Women Ministry. Minister Stephanie McLean says the provincial government is focusing on supporting women's economic security, leadership, and decreasing violence against women. She says the government's incremental increases to the minimum wage is increasing economic security for women.

"The majority of minimum wage earners are actually women. So as we move forward on this initiative in particular, we help women with their participation in the economy. Alberta women are resourceful, they're strong, they're educated, they're talented. And our government is consistently and constantly looking for ways that we can ensure that we're closing that wage gap."

McLean says the ministry is looking forward to partnering with schools and organizations to increase the role of women in leadership. She says the educational component is important, and they will be working in communities and across different government ministries.

"We're going to be a lot in the community and working across government ministries to ensure that all of our work that is done is in consideration of a gender analysis and a gender lend to ensure that women are a part of every conversation."

McLean says the ministry is moving forward to help decrease violence towards women and girls.

"We've already made some movement towards ensuring that victims of domestic violence can break their leases so that they can leave dangerous situations. We've also partnered with Human Services to develop a plan to reduce sexual violence specifically. So, we're looking forward to again, working across ministries."

McLean says Alberta women are building strong businesses, families, and communities across the province.