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Minister Ambrose Announces Canada's Theme for International Women's Day / Week 2011

February 23, 2011

OTTAWA - Today the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women announced Canada's unique theme for the 2011 International Women's Day on March 8 and International Women's Week from March 6-12. 

Canada's theme, Girls' Rights Matter / Les droits des filles comptent, supports the development, prosperity and security of girls in Canada and around the world.  It will be celebrated in conjunction with the United Nation's international theme: Equal access to education, training and science and technology: Pathway to decent work for women.

"This year we want to commend and support all women and girls in Canada and around the world, and recognize their contribution to prosperous, healthy and civil societies," said Minister Ambrose.  "A girl who enjoys equality has a greater likelihood of being self-confident and aware of her own potential, and of being empowered to access the education, training and career opportunities that will contribute to her success in life."

International Women's Day and International Women's Week promote an understanding of the challenges facing women and girls.  Each year Canadians celebrate progress toward equality for women and their full participation, reflect on the current challenges and consider future efforts.

In 1911, International Women's Day was marked for the first time in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women's rights and international peace. Canada then chose March 8 as International Women's Day.

For further information on International Women's Day and International Women's Week, visit the website of Status of Women Canada at http://www.iwd.gc.ca.

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For more information, please contact:

Rebecca Thompson
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women
819-997-5421

Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning
Status of Women Canada
613 995-7839

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Date Modified:
2011-02-23