3. Canada’s public policy choices are ageist toward Millennials and Gen Z
Just as ageism against older adults can quietly shape decisions in medical clinics, workplaces and communities, a different unseen bias shapes how we allocate public resources: structural ageism against younger people. Structural ageism is rarely the result of intentional choices. It stems from policy inertia – a failure to update government systems in response to today’s social, economic, and environmental realities. Because this bias is embedded in our institutions, we need systemic solutions to correct it and build a Canada that treats all ages and all generations fairly.