Newcomer women, particularly mothers, face unique challenges that include childcare responsibilities, limited access to mental health services, and a lack of awareness of educational policies. 

As primary caregivers, these women play a vital role in shaping their children’s education, yet they often encounter barriers that keep them from getting involved in policy decisions.

The Canadian government introduced the Gender-Based Analysis (GBA) tool, later expanded to GBA Plus, which assesses how gender and other identity factors influence experiences to promote more inclusive policies.

We will use the GBA Plus tool to assess and advocate for systemic changes at TDSB. We will engage newcomer mothers in Toronto by mobilizing them alongside TDSB trustees to advocate for a more inclusive educational system.

Our project will focus on three core activities:

1. Advocacy Training: Providing newcomer mothers with the tools and knowledge to understand the policy-making process and empower them to advocate for change.
2. Non-Partisan Public Campaign: Raising awareness and engaging the public in issues facing newcomer families, particularly mothers, in the education system.
3. Knowledge Dissemination: Sharing research and strategies to promote inclusive policies that benefit immigrant women and their children.