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October 20, 2004

GOVERNOR GENERAL'S AWARDS PRESENTATION TO SEVEN WOMEN MARKS 75^TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE PERSONS CASE

OTTAWA -- Minister of Canadian Heritage and Minister Responsible for Status of Women Liza Frulla is pleased to announce the names of the seven women to be presented with the Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case this year. The awards honour those who have made outstanding contributions to the quality of life for women in Canada .

"In 1929, the Famous Five fought successfully to have women declared 'qualified persons' in Canada . They would be proud of these seven outstanding women who have followed in their footsteps and who will receive the Persons Award this year," said Minister Frulla. "Their work has demonstrated leadership and commitment to advancing gender equality. Their example inspires us all to continue the work which has only just begun."

This year's recipients are:

Allison Brewer of Iqaluit, Nunavut

Ms. Brewer fights for equal rights and social justice for all people through her work in journalism, the labour movement, and volunteerism.

Léa Cousineau of Montréal, Quebec

Ms. Cousineau has helped women recognize their potential and expertise and has put in place programs that help women enter non-traditional professions.

Huberte Gautreau of Moncton, New Brunswick

Ms. Gautreau has been a champion for disadvantaged women and families dealing with violence in the home and has played a large role in seeking pay equity in her province.

Bonnie Sherr Klein of Vancouver, British Columbia

Through her films, Ms. Sherr Klein has given a voice to many under-represented social justice issues and shared her story of disability to encourage others.

Rosemary Speirs of Toronto, Ontario

Ms. Speirs is a political journalist and leads a national advocacy group to get more women involved in all levels of politics and to eliminate the barriers that hinder them from doing so.

Frances Wright of Calgary, Alberta

Ms. Wright has enlightened Canadians on the contributions of our foremothers, particularly the Famous Five, by establishing the Famous Five Foundation. The Foundation has had two monuments erected in honour of the Famous Five, in addition to other achievements.

Chi Nguyen of Ottawa, Ontario

Ms. Nguyen has been very involved in community initiatives, created a political job shadowing program for young women, and is a peer voice on educating young women about their sexual health.

This year also marks the 25^th year of the awards. The Government of Canada established the Governor General's Awards in 1979 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Persons Case decision and to salute the contributions of contemporary women to the advancement of women's equality. The Awards will be presented at Rideau Hall on Thursday, October 21, at 10:30 a.m.