'Remain vigilant in our pursuit of equal opportunities,' Governor General

Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, on the occasion of International Women’s Day

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OTTAWA - As we mark International Women’s Day, it is fitting that the theme - “Equal Access to Education, Training, and Science and Technology” - is so closely related to one of the pillars of my mandate: to reinforce learning and innovation.

Throughout Canadian history, women have made so many meaningful and significant contributions to society.

Yet we still must remain vigilant in our pursuit of equal opportunities for women to learn and grow.

By promoting and encouraging women in science and technology, by giving them access to quality education, we secure the future of this country for our daughters and granddaughters.

Today, let us remember the many ways women have changed this country.

Let us honour their dedication to family and children, to philanthropy and volunteerism, and to education and innovation.

On this International Women’s Day, we pay homage to all those who have paved the way for equality, and we reflect on what still must be done to create a smarter and more caring Canada.

- David Johnston


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Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on International Women’s Day

OTTAWA - Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the occasion of International Women’s Day:

“Our Government is proud to join Canadians in observing the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, a worldwide celebration of women and their outstanding achievements.

“This year’s [Canadian] theme, Girls’ Rights Matter, embodies cherished Canadian values, such as equality and opportunity, and serves to empower girls and young women to achieve success.

“Here at home, we are taking action to tackle issues of violence and economic security facing women and girls. We have introduced tougher laws, invested in shelters, strengthened victim support and awareness programs, and increased funding to women’s programs.

“Elsewhere in the world, however, many girls still face conditions of extreme injustice and violence, which make it impossible for them to participate fully in society and benefit from the opportunities to which they are entitled.

“Canada has been instrumental in promoting equal access to education for girls in Afghanistan, and at last summer’s G-8 summit, our Government championed the Muskoka Initiative on Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, which aims to reduce the mortality rates of mothers and children in the developing world.

“Our Government remains steadfast in our commitment to improve the lives of women and girls at home and around the world. On International Women’s Day 2011, I encourage all Canadians to reflect on the many valuable contributions of women and girls to our extraordinary country and the global community.”

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