Toronto organization hosts rally, march to honour International Women’s Day

March 8, 2026 marks the 115th International Women’s Day.

The International Women’s Day Toronto organization held its annual rally and march Saturday. This year’s theme was “Rise and Resist: Uniting for a New World.”

Speaking at OISE Auditorium, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow said it’s important to recognize the work so many women on the front-lines do across the city every single day.

“I want to appreciate all the public servants that have delegated their time, their hard work, that served the City of Toronto,” she said.

Chow added while Toronto is “leading the way” to close the gender pay gap, more work lies ahead.

“It's so important that we have equal work for equal value,” she said. “It's something that we need to continue to push for together.”

According to its website, International Women’s Day Toronto has held the largest event in North America recognizing the day for over 40 years. The organizing committee works alongside a variety of labour, social and gender justice activists to put on the event.

Alisha Alam, who attended Saturday with the South Asian Women and Immigrants' Services, said the “constant attacks” on women’s rights are “frustrating.”

“We will resist and we will unite across communities, across issues to ensure that women across Canada, women across the world are able to live their life with dignity,” she said.

Alam added it’s about time it is recognized that regardless of the kind of work one is in, they should be able to afford a decent living arrangement, childcare and basic life necessities.

“This is not a feasible system. This is not [a] sustainable system. We need to be working towards strengthening our public safety net,” she said. “Especially in the midst of a worsening affordability crisis, especially in the midst of growing inequities in our communities.”

President of the Toronto Public Library Workers’ Union Local 4948 Brandon Haynes said over 75 per cent of library workers identify as women. This year’s theme is two-fold for him.

“Rising means that we have to celebrate the accomplishments that we have accomplished over the years, but also reflect on the challenges and the work that's needed going ahead,” he said. “I'm happy to stand here as an ally.”