News Release Archive
STATUS OF WOMEN--TAKE OUR DAUGHTERS TO WORK DAY SUCCESSFUL ----------------------------------------------------------------- Nova Scotia's second Take Our Daughters to Work Day appears to have been a great success within the provincial government. At Province House, for example, elected representatives from all parties introduced participants, many of whom were able to hear the introduction of the budget. "I am glad Nova Scotians respond so well to this program," said Status of Women Minister Eleanor Norrie. "It's a great example of a low-cost effort, where the high value comes from people working together to benefit girls and young women throughout the province." "I thank all the people who worked so hard to make the day such a great success, particularly Brigitte Neumann and her staff at the provincial Women's Directorate," said Mrs. Norrie. Girls and young women took part in activities in most government departments, spending time with their parents, but also participating in hands-on activities. Girls visiting the Department of Housing and Municipal Affairs developed their own newsletter to commemorate the day, using the department's desk-top publishing software. The role of technology was also demonstrated in the Department of Human Resources, where the visitors learned about the computer systems that deal with staffing, compensation and similar issues. The girls also considered women's issues in the workplace through a video, "More Than Just a Job", showing the wide variety of career options now open to women. In the Department of Community Services, 20 girls took part in a well-planned educational experience. Beginning with a session on goals and aspirations, they went on to do a budget on Lotus, learned to do a resume, surfed the Net, made their own business cards on the computer, and visited the Legislative Assembly. In addition to employees' daughters, Community Services included daughters of people who are not employed. Department of Natural Resources staff gave 12 girls an opportunity to explore geology, computer-assisted drafting, wildlife issues, and photographic development. The girls also had very positive reports on the video, "Raising Young Voices", which deals with gender stereotyping and the way it limits both girls and boys -girls in their future paid work, and boys in their future family participation. "These examples from government departments show why it is so valuable to have a special day for our daughters. In the private sector, there is increased interest and participation as well, and I thank all the people across Nova Scotia who made this event possible," said Minister Norrie. -30- Contact: Brigitte Neumann 902-424-7366 trp Apr. 26, 1996 - 3:40 p.m.