Todd Doherty, Member of Parliament for Cariboo – Prince George is asking residents to submit nominations for the 2016 Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case. Each year, these awards recognize five individuals, including youth, who have made outstanding contributions in the pursuit of gender equality in Canada.
The struggle for gender equality is far from over. Data show a persistent gender wage gap, high rates of violence towards women, and a very real glass ceiling faced by women seeking leadership positions. It is the efforts of all Canadians that are helping to move us closer to gender equality.
The 2015 recipients were the Honourable Monique Bégin (Ottawa, ON), Marie-Thérèse Chicha (Montreal, QC), Dr. Ruth Elwood Martin (Vancouver, BC), Sheila McIntyre (Ottawa, ON) and Dee M. Dooley (Youth Recipient – Halifax, NS). They were recognized because their successes have helped shape Canada for the better and we have all benefited from their achievements.
Canada needs more women and men, boys and girls, to step up if we are to make more progress toward gender equality. It is important to recognize the achievements of individuals, so that their successes may inspire others. While nominations are accepted all year, the deadline for nominating someone for the 2016 awards is June 24. To get inspired, visit the Status of Women Canada website, which includes a list of past recipients, videos, and the nomination package.