Business and Professional Women Calgary launches International Day of the Girl awareness campaign

CALGARY, Oct. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today congratulated the Business and Professional Women's (BPW) Club of Calgary for launching, on the inaugural International Day of the Girl, a campaign to raise awareness of the challenges facing girls in Canada.

"I share with BPW a tremendous sense of enthusiasm for this first-ever International Day of the Girl," said Minister Ambrose. "Thanks to Canada's leadership, the momentum has grown, and will continue to surge ahead, to support the worldwide commitment to recognize girls as valued citizens, and as powerful agents of change."

The International Day of the Girl aims to promote equal treatment and opportunities for girls around the world in areas such as law, nutrition, health care, education, training, and freedom from violence and abuse. Throughout the world, girls face higher rates of violence, poverty and discrimination. The International Day of the Girl focuses on finding ways to empower girls to reach their full potential and to overcome gender-based barriers. 

On December 19, 2011, the UN General Assembly formally adopted the resolution designating the International Day of the Girl.

October is Women's History Month in Canada.  In honour of the first-ever International Day of the Girl, the theme for Women's History Month is "Strong Girls, Strong Canada: Leaders from the Start." For information on International Day of the Girl and Women's History Month 2012, go to women.gc.ca.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only:  
Amber Irwin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Public Works and
Government Services and
Minister for Status of Women
819-997-5421

For all other inquiries, contact:
Nanci-Jean Waugh
Director General, Communications
and Public Affairs
Status of Women Canada
613-995-7839

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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, go to women.gc.ca.