Status of Women Celebrates Persons Day
Oct. 18 has marked a significant date in Canadian history for 71 years. It was on this day in 1929 that Canadian women were first recognized as persons under the law. Since then, the date has been celebrated as Persons Day.
Prior to Oct. 18, 1929, courts had found that Canadian women were persons for purposes of pains and penalties, but not for purposes of rights and privileges. That all changed due to the determination of five Alberta women who challenged Canada's highest court in the so-called Persons case. Their victory opened the door for all citizens of Canada to participate in all facets of public life.
"Today we should celebrate the accomplishments of all Nova Scotia women," said Jane Purves, Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women. "We have made significant advancements, but we must continue to work together to bring about positive change, to put more women in positions of leadership."
The advisory council invites all Nova Scotians to celebrate this historic occasion by reflecting on those women who made great strides throughout history. Among those who lead the way are Anna Leonowens as one of the founders of the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and a leading force in a number of women's organizations in the 1880s and 1890s; Agnes Dennis, who along with other women, started and ran the Halifax branch of the Red Cross; and Dr. Eliza Ritchie, Nova Scotia's first female college professor and the first female member of the Board of Governors at Dalhousie University from 1919-25.
Due to the work of women like Ms. Leonowens significant changes have been made in societal perceptions and attitudes concerning women. Patricia Doyle-Bedwell, chair of the advisory council, said that although women have progressed in the workplace, in the home, and in society in general, more change is needed.
"It's great to have so many firsts for women, but it's even better when these achievements become completely normal," said Ms. Doyle-Bedwell. "We still have a long way to go to ensure that women of all backgrounds have the opportunity for full participation in all aspects of political and economic life".