HAT Forum - Sexual Harassment and Violence Against Women in the Skilled Trades

The Humanist Association of Toronto
http://www.humanisttoronto.ca/

Every Saturday we meet on Zoom to discuss a topic decided upon the previous week. These are topics of humanist interest, from a humanist perspective.

The topic of the discussion will be decided in a prior meeting, usually two weeks in advance. This week’s topic is: Violence Against Women in the Skilled Trades - introduced by Ryn Loewe

The Prevalence of Sexual Harassment and Violence Against Women in the Skilled Trades
Despite growing efforts to diversify the skilled trades, sexual harassment and gender-based violence remain alarmingly prevalent for women and gender-diverse individuals in these fields. A 2024 report by YWCA Halifax revealed that 91% of women and gender-diverse tradespeople in Nova Scotia experienced at least one form of sexual or gender-based harassment, with most incidents occurring on job sites and often perpetrated by men in positions of authority.
This hostile environment contributes to high attrition rates among women apprentices, who often face not only harassment but also isolation, discrimination, and lack of support. Many do not report incidents due to fear of retaliation, disbelief, or normalization of such behavior within male-dominated workplaces.
The Rise of Peer Support Through Social Media
In response to these challenges, women in the skilled trades have built vibrant online communities to share experiences, offer mentorship, and foster solidarity. Hashtags like #WomenOfSteel, #TradeswomenTalk, and #SheBuilds have become rallying points on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. These groups provide safe spaces for tradeswomen to connect, troubleshoot workplace issues, celebrate achievements, and organize advocacy efforts.
Initiatives like ConnectHER and Women in Skilled Trades (WiST) also use social media to amplify voices, promote events, and build networks across provinces. These digital communities are not just support systems—they’re catalysts for cultural change in the trades.
Moving Toward Safer, More Inclusive Workplaces
Organizations like the Canadian Construction Association and WomanACT are partnering to reshape workplace culture through training and policy reform, aiming to create safer, more inclusive environments in the trades. But systemic change requires more than policy—it demands a cultural shift, one that these online communities are helping to lead.

Meet our diverse group, trade perspectives in a free and open forum and learn from others as they learn from you!

BTW: don't be concerned if there are not many RSVP’s. Many HAT members attend regularly but don’t sign up on Meetup. Our online meetings have been very popular with 20-30 attendees.

NOTE: The HAT Forum adheres strictly to the City of Toronto Policy on Non-Discrimination (http://www.the519.org/public/content/policy-files/The519SpaceUsePolicy.pdf)

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