Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case

June 30, 2009

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OTTAWA - The Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women), is pleased to announce the Call for Nominations for the 30th Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case.

The awards were instituted by the Governor General in 1979 to honour the 50th anniversary of the "Persons Case" and the five Alberta women whose determination led to a landmark victory in the struggle by Canadian women for equality. The Famous Five achieved not only the right for women to serve in the Senate, but also paved the way for women to participate in other aspects of public life.

"Equality for women and their full participation in society are important for women, their families, their communities and our country. More than ever before, we need women leaders of all ages to help keep our country strong, economically, socially and democratically," said Minister Guergis. "The Government of Canada is proud to recognize those who work to promote the equality of girls and women in Canada. Recipients of these awards continue the tradition of dedication and determination that the Famous Five inspired to enrich their communities."

Five awards in addition to one Youth Award are presented annually to candidates chosen from across Canada. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must be Canadian citizens over 30 years of age, or between 15 and 30 years of age for the Youth Award.

Deadline for nominations is July 31, 2009.

For more information about the awards criteria and for a nomination form, contact:

Status of Women Canada 123 Slater Street, 10th floor
Ottawa, Ontario K1P 1H9
613-995-7835
http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/dates/gg/index-eng.html

Status of Women Canada is a federal government agency working to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.
For more information on Status of Women Canada, visit http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca.

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For more information, please contact:

Sherine Mansour
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of State (Status of Women)
819-956-4000

Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning
Status of Women Canada
613-995-7839

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