OTTAWA – The federal government of Canada is set to unveil a new budget that will allocate significant funds aimed at enhancing women's roles in leadership and ensuring the safety of LGBTQ communities during Pride events. This announcement was made by Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne and Minister of Women and Gender Equality Rechie Valdez during a press conference scheduled for this afternoon.
According to a pre-released statement, the budget will be presented on November 4, 2026, and will earmark $382.5 million over a five-year period starting in 2026-27. Out of this amount, $76.5 million will be designated for ongoing initiatives to promote women's equality in Canada, which will focus on improving economic security and increasing women's participation in leadership roles.
In addition to funding for women's initiatives, the budget is set to allocate $54.6 million over five years, beginning in 2026-27, with an ongoing contribution of $10.9 million to support the LGBTQ communities in Canada. This funding is expected to help foster a more inclusive environment and can play a crucial role in various community activities and events.
Of particular significance is the allocation of $7.5 million over five years, along with an annual ongoing investment of $1.5 million, specifically earmarked for security measures during Pride events. This funding is a recognition of the importance of ensuring safe spaces for LGBTQ individuals, particularly during events that celebrate their identity and rights.
The budget will also address the pressing issue of gender-based violence by setting aside $223.4 million over a five-year span, with $44.7 million dedicated to ongoing efforts in this critical area. This funding aims to bolster support services and initiatives aimed at preventing gender-based violence, which remains a significant challenge in Canada.
The forthcoming budget reflects the government's commitment to advancing equality and safety for marginalized communities and addressing the systemic issues of gender-based violence. With these financial commitments, the federal government aims to create a more equitable society where both women and LGBTQ individuals can thrive without fear of discrimination or violence.
This report highlights the government’s proactive approach to social justice and equity, aiming to foster an inclusive Canadian society through these significant financial investments in the upcoming fiscal plan.
