OTTAWA, Oct. 11, 2018 /CNW/ - The Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister of Status of Women, today issued the following statement:
"Today we honour International Day of the Girl, which was inspired by a group of girls who asked world leaders for their own day to raise awareness about the unique challenges and opportunities they face because of their gender.
"In too many instances, girls still face barriers to basic necessities such as food, clothing and shelter, and many girls worldwide face limited or non-existent access to education, restricting their ability to achieve financial security. That is why we mark this day by rededicating ourselves to the goal of empowering girls, because everyone deserves the opportunity to live up to their full potential.
"This year's theme, With Her: A Skilled GirlForce, focuses on the need to increase learning opportunities for girls and ensure they are prepared for a successful transition into the world of work. In June, at the conclusion of the G7 in Charlevoix, Quebec, along with the European Union, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the World Bank, announced an investment of nearly $3.8 billion CAD to support quality education for women and girls living in crisis, conflict-affected and fragile states. This is the single largest investment of its kind in history and will help prepare girls to be educated and skilled workers, making our communities healthier, our societies more equitable and our economies stronger. I am proud that Canada is taking a global leadership role in promoting gender equality and empowering women and girls with our Feminist International Assistance Policy.
"Here at home, we are working to ensure the safety and financial security of girls through our investments in the Canada Child Benefit, which helps nine out of ten Canadian families; promoting women and girls in STEM and the skilled trades; supporting projects like Daughters of the Vote that encourage young women to become engaged in politics; and through vital initiatives to prevent teen dating violence and combat bullying, cyberbullying and online child sexual exploitation.
"In Canada and around the world, there are so many girls who are already making their mark as students, entrepreneurs, volunteers, and activists. Their fresh perspectives, boundless energy, and courageous ideas are evidence that girls are already challenging the status quo and making a difference in their communities.
"I encourage you to elevate the voices of girls in your community who are working hard to make a difference, to tear down barriers, and to claim their own place in the world, by sharing their stories on social media using #MakeAnImpact.
"On this very special day, we not only celebrate the power of girls, we invite every girl to follow her dreams. Always remember that you are never too young to create positive change!"
SOURCE Status of Women Canada
Inquiries: Justine Villeneuve, Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Status of Women, 819-420-7044
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