Gender equality isn't a fight that can be done alone. It requires all of us to acknowledge and work towards breaking down the barriers of entry of equitable participation - in all parts of society. This includes having more diverse representation, a fair say in politics, equal opportunities in Canada's workforce, and the freedom to live without fear of violence and discrimination.
Today, on Persons Day, and the 95th anniversary of the historic Persons Case, the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, announced the recipients of the 2024 Governor General's Awards (Persons Awards) in Commemoration of the Persons Case.
The 2024 Persons Awards recipients are:
- Sylvia Bashevkin
- Janine Benedet, K.C.
- Dr. Rabiya Jalil
- Jean Parris
- Nicole White
- Joëlle Kabisoso Kapinga (Youth Recipient)
This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Persons Awards. Both the 2023 and 2024 recipients were commemorated during a ceremony today in Calgary, Alberta. The 2023 Persons Awards recipients are Marlene Catterall, Gemma Hickey, Dr. Nafissa Ismail, Lorin MacDonald, Maria Wu and Aditi Sivakumar (Youth Recipient).
Recipients of the Persons Awards serve as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging the next generation to reach new heights and continue the tradition of courage, integrity, and hard work that the Famous Five of the Persons Case inspired. The contributions of these award recipients include community builders, academics, artists, physicians, and lawyers, who have helped to advance gender equality by removing barriers that hold women and girls back, and by shaping a world of infinite possibilities for everyone.
