OTTAWA, Oct. 11, 2012 /CNW/ - On behalf of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, the Honourable Salma Ataullahjan, Senator of Ontario (Toronto), delivered opening remarks at a panel presentation on the empowerment of girls and women, hosted by the United Nations Association in Canada (UNA-Canada).
"I share with the UNA-Canada 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."
"It is both a pleasure and an honour to celebrate the first-annual International Day of the Girl with UNA-Canada," said Sentaor Ataullahjan. "Every country in the world benefits when women and girls are economically secure, physically safe, and able to access leadership roles. This worldwide commemoration promotes these values in all nations."
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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