Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case

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. The five recipients honoured today continue the tradition of courage, integrity and hard work embodied by the Famous Five.

The Governor General delivered a speech on the occasion of the presentation of the Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case: "Without women’s involvement in science or in community building or public service or any other sphere, the results are dismal: Our innovation is halved.Our ingenuity is halved.Our accomplishments are halved."

Ms. Anju Dhilon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Status of Women, also delivered remarks on the history of the Persons Case. In 1929, five women from Alberta, known as the Famous Five, won the judiciary battle to be recognized as persons, therefore making them eligible for appointment to the Senate. The case also paved the way for women's increased participation in Canadian public and political life.

The Honourable Monique Bégin (Ottawa, Ontario) was recognized for her compassionate advocacy as an activist, political leader and academic dedicated to the advancement of women in Canada.

Marie-Thérèse Chicha (Montréal, Quebec) has maintained an unwavering commitment to equity and equality for women through her research on systemic discrimination and through her expert advice to international organizations.

Ruth Elwood Martin (Vancouver, British Colombia) is a pioneering advocate for the health and well-being of incarcerated women and their infant children, as well as a dedicated family physician and community leader.

Sheila McIntyre (Ottawa, Ontario) is a legal activist, scholar and educator who encourages marginalized women to participate in shaping reforms designed to advance equality and who challenges legal institutions, governments and courts to respect the human rights of women.

Dee M. Dooley (Youth Recipient), of Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a mentor, educator and volunteer who strives for social justice and equality by developing innovative community programming designed to empower and protect young women.

The Honourable Patty A. Hajdu, Minister of Status of Women, also celebrated the achievements of the recipients. 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.