TORONTO, Oct. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Canada's Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, Ms. Roxanne James, M.P. (Scarborough Centre), attended an event in Toronto to celebrate October 11 as the first-ever International Day of the Girl.
"International Day of the Girl will make a difference in the lives of girls and young women, as citizens and as powerful voices of change within their families, their communities and their nations," said Minister Ambrose. "My hope is that all Canadians will use this opportunity to rally support for girls' rights, and to educate the world about the vast potential of girls to help create a better life for all."
In honour of International Day of the Girl, Ms. James delivered opening remarks at an event hosted by Plan Canada and the Toronto District School Board's "Young Women on the Move" program.
"Canada is proud to have led the international community in establishing International Day of the Girl," said Ms. James. "The Government of Canada is committed to improving the lives of girls and women. Since 2009, through Status of Women Canada, our government has approved more than $8.2 million in funding for girl-focused projects."
In addition, to celebrate the inaugural International Day of the Girl, and as part of its Because I am a Girl initiative, Plan Canada is hosting a day-long public event at Yonge-Dundas Square, including an evening concert. Birks is also hosting a sold out gala event for Plan Canada to benefit the initiative called A Night for Girls to Shine.
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. 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 on Women's History Month 2012, go to women.gc.ca.
SOURCE: Status of Women Canada
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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, please visit women.gc.ca.
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