Minister Ambrose launches theme for International Women's Day and Week

STRONG WOMEN, STRONG CANADA -
Women in Rural, Remote and Northern Communities: Key to Canada's Economic Prosperity

OTTAWA, Feb. 16, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today announced the theme for International Women's Week which runs this year from March 4^th to 10^th, and includes International Women's Day on March 8^th.

"Our Government is committed to sustaining Canada's position as one of the world's top-performing economies. Women are important to that success story," said Minister Ambrose. "In every region of Canada, women - particularly, in rural, remote and Northern communities - play important roles in their families and communities, and are key to Canada's economic prosperity."

Each year during International Women's Week, Canadians celebrate and reflect on women's participation and leadership in Canada and around the world. This year's theme will focus on the vital role of women in Canada's rural, remote and northern communities.

"Through targeted action, the Government of Canada supports the economic security and prosperity of women and girls in rural and remote communities, works to advance their leadership opportunities and forges ahead on ending violence against women," said Minister Ambrose.

International Women's Day was marked for the first time in 1911 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.

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

For media inquiries only:
      
Michelle Bakos
Director of Communications
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 www.swc-cfc.gc.ca.