About the Awards

In 1927, five Alberta women, now known as the "Famous Five," brought a case before the courts to challenge whether the word “person” in the British North America Act included women.

On October 18, 1929, Canada's highest court of appeal, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council of Great Britain, declared that the word "person" included both women and men, which made it possible for women to serve in the Senate. 

This changed the course of history for women in Canada and paved the way for women's increased participation in public and political life. The case became known as the Persons Case, and October 18 is now recognized as Persons Day.

The Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case were created in 1979 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Persons Case.

These annual Awards honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing equality for women and girls in Canada. Recipients come from all regions and all walks of life, and they carry forward the legacy of courage, integrity, and determination exemplified by the Famous Five.

Learn more about the Awards' Policy and Jury