WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH – CELEBRATING WOMEN IN THE CANADIAN MILITARY FORCES

Released on October 3, 2011

October is Women's History Month in Canada, a time when we turn the spotlight on the history of women's human rights in our country to reflect on the value of inclusion and equality, and the importance of full citizenship. Women's History Month also provides an opportunity to recognize and honour women for how they have shaped our history, and the economic, social, political and cultural fabric of our country.

Women's History Month honours the "Persons Case" of 1929, which formally recognized women as "persons" under the law and made it possible for women to serve in Canada's Senate. Prior to that, women in Canada were considered in law as, "...persons in matters of pains and penalties, but...not persons in matters of rights and privileges."

The Status of Women Office in the Ministry of Social Services is proclaiming October as Women's History Month in Saskatchewan. This year's theme, "Women in the Canadian Military Forces: A Proud Legacy," celebrates women's contributions, now and throughout history, to the Canadian military forces.

"The contributions of Canadian women in the military have evolved over the years," Minister responsible for the Status of Women June Draude said. "Today, women serve in all roles in the Canadian Forces, including active combat. Women's History Month is an excellent opportunity for everyone to recognize the dedication and leadership of the Saskatchewan women who are serving in the Canadian military, and to thank them wholeheartedly for helping to make our world safer for everyone."

The contributions Saskatchewan women have made are significant:

• During World War II, a recognized Saskatchewan Métis veteran, Dorothy Askwith, enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force at the age of 17.
• Many women signed up for duty at the Bombing and Gunnery School in Mossbank.
• In 1941, Saskatchewan war heroine Joan Bamford Fletcher joined the British Fannies, a large organization of adventurous women who worked on the front lines rescuing injured soldiers and providing nursing care.
• Born in Quebec City, Lieutenant-Colonel Maryse Carmichael is an accomplished pilot who completed her pilot training in 1994, receiving her wings at 15 Wing Moose Jaw. She became the first female Snowbird pilot in 2001 and, in 2010, became the 431 Air Demonstration Squadron's first female Commanding Officer. This new assignment marks a return to 15 Wing Moose Jaw, to command the Canadian Forces' Air Demonstration Team, the Snowbirds.

"Our government is proud of women's contributions to our country's rich military history," Draude said. "We encourage everyone to acknowledge the strength and tenacity of the women in your families and communities during Women's History Month."

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For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-8689