Call for Nominations for the 2023 Persons Case Awards – Honouring Canadians who advance gender equality

From: Women and Gender Equality Canada

News release

April 17, 2023—Ottawa, ON—Women and Gender Equality Canada

Gender equality depends on all people, regardless of their gender, having the opportunity to participate fully in democratic and public life, attain economic security, and live free of violence. Recognizing the contributions of individuals who play a key role in that effort is essential to inspiring others to make a difference in our country and around the world.

The call for nominations for the 2023 Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case is now open. These awards recognize Canadians, including youth, who have made outstanding contributions to the advancement of gender equality.

Last year’s recipients, Dr. Lynn Gehl, Dr. Shimi Kang, Farrah Khan, Dr. Sylvia Maracle, Judy White and Ishita Aggarwal, are all trailblazers in their respective areas, and their continued work has shaped Canada for the better.

While nominations are accepted year-round, the deadline for nominations for the 2023 awards is June 30, 2023. Get inspired by past recipients and view the nomination guidelines on Women and Gender Equality Canada’s website.

Quick facts

  • The Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case marks the day in 1929 when the historic decision to include women in the legal definition of “persons” was handed down by Canada’s highest court of appeal. This milestone victory gave women the right to be appointed to the Senate of Canada and paved the way for women’s increased participation in public and political life.

  • The video entitled “Women. Are. Persons.” describes the Famous Five and the Persons Case, which paved the way for women to participate more fully in all aspects of Canadian life.

  • Over 200 people from coast to coast to coast have received the award since 1979.

Associated links

Contacts

Media Relations 
Women and Gender Equality Canada 
819-420-6530 
FEGC.Media.WAGE@fegc-wage.gc.ca

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