Toronto, ON – Today, the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, joined students at Ryerson University to launch Women's History Month 2013, Canadian Women Pioneers: Inspiring Change Through Ongoing Leadership. Joining in the launch was Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada's first female astronaut and the first neurologist in space and Julia Hanigsberg, Vice President, Administration and Finance, Ryerson University.
"With Canada's women pioneers as the focus of Women's History Month, I hope young women across the country will be inspired by their stories and set paths for themselves that they can follow to success," said Minister Leitch. "I want young women to capitalize on career opportunities in every field – in the sciences, business, technology and the trades, as well in the natural resources sector."
"I never really set out to be a pioneer for women in my chosen fields of study or my various career paths, but being the first woman to try something new can put you at the forefront of change without even realizing it," said Dr. Bondar. "I do hope that my experiences will inspire many young women and girls to know they have an equal chance at success no matter the life path or career they choose."
"We are pleased to participate in the launch of Women's History Month in Canada for 2013," said Mr. Sheldon Levy, President and Vice Chancellor of Ryerson University. "We hope this event and the month of October will inspire countless women on our own campus and across Canada to feel empowered about their limitless futures .
Throughout October 2013, the Government of Canada is highlighting Canadian women as pioneers in many fields of endeavour. The public is invited to send their reflections on women pioneers in their communities, workplaces, or schools. Some of these reflections will be posted on the Status of Women web site during the month of October. For more information, please visit www.women.gc.ca.
Women's History Month is celebrated each year throughout October and includes the commemoration of the "persons case" when on October 18, 1929, women were first legally recognized as "persons" under Canadian law. During this month, Canada will also recognize the second International Day of the Girl on October 11th. This international day promotes equal treatment and opportunities for girls around the world in areas such as law, nutrition, health care, education, training, and freedom from violence and abuse.
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