STATUS OF WOMEN–-Women's History Month Celebrates Trailblazers

Nova Scotians are invited to honour remarkable women from our past and encourage leaders of tomorrow during Women's History Month.

Throughout October, the Nova Scotia Advisory Council on the Status of Women will highlight a number of resources it has available for women and girls, including fact sheets and activities.

Nadine Bernard, president of the Aboriginal Women's Commission and a new member of the advisory council, said the resources, such as the annual campaign school for women, have made a positive change for First Nations women.

"I brought two First Nation women from separate communities with me to campaign school," said Ms. Bernard. "I wanted them to hear the message of engaging, encouraging and supporting women to become leaders and/or seek out women who they felt had strong characteristics of wanting to make a difference.

"One woman is actively seeking nomination to run in the next federal election. If successful, she would be Nova Scotia's first Mi'kmaq woman to run as a candidate in a federal election."

There are a number of other resources available, including:

• The Nova Scotia Nine, a book that tells the stories of remarkable women in Nova Scotia
• Votes for Women, a political guide for women interested in seeking public office
• Guide for Girls, which provides information for girls age 12 to 15 on real-life issues facing young women today

"October is a time to reflect on the achievements of remarkable women from yesterday and today, while encouraging our girls to be engaged now, and become the leaders of tomorrow," said Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women Joanne Bernard. "I encourage all Nova Scotians to learn more about women in our province."

The publications are available in print and online by visiting women.gov.ns.ca .