Kelowna, BC – The Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Labour and Minister of Status of Women, along with the Honourable Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna-Lake Country, and Alaina Podmorow, founder of Little Women for Little Women in Afghanistan, today gathered with students at Aberdeen Hall Preparatory School to send a message of support for International Day of the Girl celebrations on Friday, October 11, 2013.
"Throughout our history, generations of Canadian girls have been leaders and role models whose accomplishments have positively impacted Canadians and people around the world," said Minister Leitch. "I hope girls here in Kelowna, and throughout the country, will be inspired by the International Day of the Girl, and feel empowered to succeed in all aspects of Canada's social, economic and democratic life."
Minister Leitch asked the students at Aberdeen Hall to help her bring greetings to girls and young women around the world by signing a statement of support that she will take to International Day of the Girl celebrations at the United Nations in New York later this week.
"Girls and young women play a crucial role in the social and economic health of our nation," said Mr. Cannan. "As a father of three daughters, I know first-hand that providing girls and young women with opportunities to flourish will help build strong communities and a strong Canada."
Alaina Podmorow was the Government of Canada's Honourary Youth Ambassador at the United Nations (UN) last year. She shared the inspirational story of Malala Yousafzai, who was shot in the head in 2012 on her way home from school in Pakistan.
"Malala is a testament of strength and courage for girls worldwide," said Ms. Podmorow. "It is my hope that by sharing her story, Canadians will be inspired to take action to improve the life of girls and young women worldwide."
On March 24, 2011, the House of Commons gave its unanimous support for Canada to lead a campaign at the United Nations for designating an International Day of the Girl. Canada led the international community for this initiative, which was formally adopted by the UN General Assembly on December 19, 2011. The first International Day of the Girl was commemorated across the world in 2012.
Canadians are encouraged to participate in International Day of the Girl celebrations during Women's History Month in Canada, and send an e-postcard to celebrate girls and young women in their communities. For more information, visit www.dayofthegirl.gc.ca.
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