On the Shoulders of Giants
International Women’s Day is a moment to recognize leadership, resilience and the countless ways women shape our communities. In animal welfare, the leadership of women is impossible to miss.
Across humane societies, veterinary clinics and advocacy groups, women are often the driving force behind the work.
When the Ottawa Humane Society was founded in 1888, it was a group of compassionate and determined women who saw suffering around them and took action. These women organized, advocated and built a community devoted to protecting animals and promoting kindness.
More than 135 years later, their determination continues to guide us. Their heart is seen in every homeless animal who finds comfort and care, each adoption and its new beginning, and in every family that finds the support they need to keep their beloved pet.
In North America, women were generally excluded from politics up until the early 20th century. Joining a charitable cause was one of the few methods available for women to lead change in their communities. When you consider also that women often have higher empathy towards animals and animal suffering, it is clear why women are the foundation of the movement and carry on this important work in the modern day.
What’s inspirational to me is that today, Canadian women have the choice of many great and noble careers and causes where they may apply their skill and talent. With a wealth of opportunities available, animal welfare is still a top choice for women selecting a career path.
At the OHS, women make up the majority of our dedicated staff and volunteer team. I’m so grateful to work alongside these incredible people whose skill, empathy and determination make second chances possible for thousands of animals each year. From our animal care, education, community services, and administraton staff to our volunteers, adopters, donors, and advocates, women are huge part of Ottawa’s safety net for the animals.
One of the best ways to honour this commitment is to ensure fair compensation for women in the workforce — something I’m proud to say the OHS has strived to create through ensuring adherence to a robust pay equity system.
Women are leading the way for animal welfare today and throughout history have been the first to step up for animals in need.
To the incredible women in our community — staff, volunteers, donors, adopters and advocates — thank you. Your compassion, leadership and determination are shaping a more humane and compassionate future for Ottawa’s animals.
Sharon Miko
President & CEO