Executive Council
October 18, 2016
Celebrating Advancements of Women
Provincial Government Recognizes National Persons Day
The Provincial Government is recognizing today (Tuesday, October 18) as Persons Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. This is a day to highlight and celebrate the advancements made and opportunities available, both socially and economically, for women and girls throughout the country.
"On this day, women in our province and throughout the country celebrate a pivotal step for equality and
the contributions that women have made in our society. Women are taking on progressive leadership and
decision-making roles in all facets of our nation – private, public, politics, justice, education, just
to name a few. We all must work to ensure gender equality is on the forefront, and promote equal
opportunities for everyone – especially for the benefit of our future generations."
- The Honourable Cathy Bennett, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women
Persons Day was established on October 18, 1929, and commemorates the historic decision to include women in the legal definition of "persons." This decision was handed down by Canada's highest court of appeal and gave women the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada and paved the way for women's increased participation in public and political life.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is continually working to advance the status of women through collaboration with community partners on topics such as the role of women in skilled trades, business and leadership, as well as through the support of organizations such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs, the Office to Advance Women Apprentices and the Women in Resource Development Corporation.
QUICK FACTS
- The Provincial Government is recognizing Persons Day in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Persons Day was established on October 18, 1929, and commemorates the historic decision to include women in the legal definition of "persons."
- This decision gave women the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada and paved the way for women's increased participation in public and political life.
- The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is continually working to advance the status of women throughout the province.
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Media contact:
|
Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Finance 709-729-6830, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca |
2016 10 18 11:05 a.m.