Quebec is set to become the first province in Canada to officially recognize a National Day for Invisible Work. This day will serve as a way to acknowledge and honor the often overlooked contributions of individuals who perform unpaid labor, such as caregiving, household chores, and volunteer work.
The idea for this day originated from a petition created by the Quebec Women’s Federation, which garnered over 10,000 signatures. The petition called for the government to recognize the value of invisible work and to take steps towards addressing the inequalities and challenges faced by those who perform it.
According to the Federation, invisible work is estimated to make up 50% of the total work done in Quebec, yet it is not recognized or compensated in the same way as traditional paid work. This often leads to a lack of recognition and appreciation for those who perform it, particularly women who are disproportionately affected.
The National Day for Invisible Work will be held on April 7th, coinciding with the International Day of Health and Care Workers. This date was chosen to highlight the essential role of caregivers and the impact of their work on society.
The Quebec government has shown its support for this initiative, with Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, Isabelle Charest, stating that “it is important to recognize the value of invisible work and to take concrete actions to support those who perform it.”
This day will not only serve as a way to recognize and appreciate the contributions of those who perform invisible work, but it will also bring attention to the need for policies and programs that support and empower these individuals. It is a step towards achieving gender equality and recognizing the diverse forms of work that contribute to our society.
Invisible work may not always be visible, but its impact is undeniable. The National Day for Invisible Work in Quebec is a significant step towards acknowledging and valuing the vital role of unpaid labor in our society. Let us use this day to reflect on the contributions of those who perform invisible work and to work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
