2014 Persons Case Awards

"Each of you being honoured today has made a difference in the lives of women and girls, here at home and around the world. You have helped to make the world a fairer, more equitable place. But because you recognize that there are women in the world who are still suffering, still being discriminated against, you know that your job is not done."

His Excellency presented the Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case to five laureates during a ceremony at Rideau Hall.

Mary Elizabeth Atcheson, of Toronto, is a women’s rights advocate who uses her legal training and love of the law to champion the cause of equality.

Louise Champoux-Paillé, of Montréal, has worked tirelessly for more than 25 years to champion women in senior roles at public and private institutions in Canada.

Tracy Porteous, of Vancouver, serves her community through her work to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.

Chantal Thanh Laplante (Youth Recipient), of Moncton, has a passion for community engagement. Her feminist activism has led her to work towards social and legal equality for both sexes.

Emilie Nicolas (Youth Recipient), of Toronto, is an outstanding campaigner for women’s human rights, dignity, autonomy and equality of opportunity.

The Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case were established in 1979, by the Government of Canada, with the support of then-Governor General the Right Honourable Edward Schreyer, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this historic decision.

The Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case highlight Canadian contributions to the advancement of women’s equality and celebrate Canada’s evolution as an inclusive society.