Statement by the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Status of Women, On Persons Day

OTTAWA, Oct. 18, 2013 /CNW/ - Today, the Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Status of Women, issued the following statement on the occasion of Persons Day:

	"On this special day, we commemorate the remarkable contributions of the 'Famous Five'. In 1929, five Canadian women - Emily Murphy, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Louise McKinney, Irene Parlby, and Nellie McClung - fought and won the right for women to be legally recognized as 'persons' in Canada. This historic decision allowed women to be appointed to the Senate of Canada, and paved the way for their increased participation in public and political life.
	The Government of Canada recognizes the importance of this historic date for all Canadians. Persons Day reminds us of the exceptional and worthy contributions that women have made and continue to make to our nation.
	On behalf of the Government of Canada, I invite all Canadians to join me in marking this important day."

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada

For media inquiries only:

Barbara Mottram
Office of the Hon. Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, P.C.,
O. Ont., M.P.
Minister of Labour and Minister of
Status of Women
Tel: [phone]