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NEWS RELEASES

THE OFFICE OF THE
GOVERNOR GENERAL
OF CANADA

THE OFFICE OF THE
PRIME MINISTER
OF CANADA

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Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, on the Occasion of International Women’s Day

OTTAWA - On International Women’s Day, we again have the opportunity to highlight the efforts and progress achieved by all women who are actively working to uphold their gender equality rights and act on all the opportunities available to them.

This year’s theme, “Equality for women is progress for all,” evokes essential values for our society, as equality is the key to social and economic development.

I encourage all Canadians to think about the countless and invaluable contributions that women are making in our country and throughout the world, and to take part in the many activities marking this International Women’s Day.  

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Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement to mark International Women’s Day:

Today, we celebrate the many achievements of women in Canada and around the world, and reaffirm our commitment to gender equality.

This year, we celebrate the contributions of women entrepreneurs. Canada’s theme for this year’s International Women’s Day is Strong Women. Strong Canada. Canadian Women – Creating Jobs One Business at a Time. This theme highlights the important role that women entrepreneurs play in driving growth, creating jobs, and fostering innovation in the Canadian economy.

Our Government is taking action to support women’s economic security and prosperity, including by supporting measures to increase the participation of women on public and private corporate boards, as well as promoting leadership projects and mentorship for young women entrepreneurs.

We are also investing significantly in projects to end violence against women and girls.

This includes taking action to prevent cyber and sexual violence, and addressing the issue of violence against women and girls committed in the name of so-called ‘honour.’

Internationally, Canada is a recognized global leader in promoting the health of women and children in developing countries and in reducing the unacceptable mortality rates faced each year by these vulnerable populations.

We are also taking a leadership role in supporting women who continue to struggle for equality.

This includes increasing girls' access to quality education and working to protect women and children from violence and abuse by prioritizing the elimination of child, early and forced marriage.

On this day, I encourage all Canadians to join me in celebrating International Women’s Day.

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