Photo © Courtesy of GECO
Gender should never define a person’s opportunities—but in many industries and communities, it still does. The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) is working to change this, with a mission to break down barriers and create truly inclusive communities. Founded in 2019, GECO ensures that all individuals, regardless of gender identity, have equal access to opportunities.
The organization champions intersectional gender justice, advocating for policies and initiatives that support people of all cultures, ages, races, orientations, locations, and abilities.
Driving Change for an Equitable Future
More than just inspiring conversations, GECO is about inspiring true action. Through advocacy, policy reform, and community engagement, the coalition is building a future where gender does not determine success—and it all starts with three major projects that are creating lasting impacts across Ontario.
Cheers for Change: Advancing Equity in the Trades
The skilled trades industry remains one of the most gender-segregated professions, and Cheers for Change is tackling this issue head-on. This initiative mobilizes workers, unions, and industry allies to create fair workplaces where women and gender-diverse individuals can thrive.
The program’s second phase, Cheers and Change Hit the Road, is expanding efforts to strengthen gender-equitable contract language, amplify voices advocating for change, and ensure that industry events include gender equity as a key focus.
Want to get involved?
- Create a video showing what equity looks like in your workplace.
- Host an event that highlights gender inclusion in the trades.
- Invite GECO to speak at meetings, panels, and conferences.
- Share inspiring stories and pictures of women breaking barriers in the trades.
- Change doesn’t happen in silence—it happens through action. Together, we can redefine what the skilled trades look like.
Rainbow Connections: Safe Spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ Youth
Every young person deserves a supportive community, but many 2SLGBTQIA+ youth face discrimination and isolation. GECO, in collaboration with the Rainbow Optimists, is working to secure funding from United Way to create programming that fosters connections and peer relationships among 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in Southwestern Ontario.
The ConnectHER Conference
The ConnectHER Conference is an annual conference that unites tradeswomen, industry leaders, union representatives, policymakers, and gender equity advocates to celebrate achievements and challenge industry norms. At this year’s conference, GECO is introducing the ConnectHER Anti-Sexist Toolkit and Bargaining Guide—a resource that offers actionable strategies for union leaders and employers to promote gender-inclusive workplaces.
There are countless reasons to attend, from the opportunity to gain insights from industry leaders and advocates, learning strategies to address workplace inequities, and connecting with like-minded professionals committed to gender equity. But perhaps most importantly, it’s a chance to be part of a movement that is actively dismantling barriers.
Be Part of the Movement
Change doesn’t happen by chance—it happens because people demand it. The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) is leading the charge, but real transformation happens when we all take part. Whether you’re a tradesperson, a community leader, or someone who believes in fairness, you can be part of this movement.
- Invite GECO to speak at your workplace or industry event.
- Support Cheers for Change by sharing stories and advocating for workplace equity.
- Promote Rainbow Connections and help secure resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.
- Attend the ConnectHER Conference and be part of the change.
Find more information and ways to get involved at thegenderequalitycoalitionofontario.org
Get your free copy of Global Heroes, jam-packed with positive news, straight in your inbox.
The Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario (GECO) was founded in 2019 to work to establish communities where all individuals have equal access to every opportunity, unbiased by gender.