Released on March 8, 2012
International Women's Day, March 8, is an annual global celebration of the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future. Over time, International Women's Day has grown into a series of commemorative events and activities which are held across the country throughout the month of March. This year, Saskatchewan's theme is "Women and Girls Inspiring Leadership: Gateway to Economic Security".
"As educators, entrepreneurs and business and professional women, Saskatchewan women are vital contributors to their families, communities and the economy," Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for the Status of Women June Draude said. "International Women's Day has been celebrated for more than 100 years, and provides us with an opportunity to reflect on the strengths of Saskatchewan women in leading the way for women and girls. We have great examples like the province's first female mayors, Estevan's Ida Petterson, who held office from 1970 to 1976, to national journalist and Senator Pamela Wallin."
As a result of the province's focus on growing the economy, 5,600 more women were employed in Saskatchewan in 2010 than in 2008. Approximately 34,000 Saskatchewan women are self-employed and without exception females have, on average, higher levels of education than Saskatchewan men. Employment and education are equality levers for women and girls and today we celebrate the gains in closing the equality gaps in our province.
In Saskatchewan, the Status of Women Office (SWO) in the Ministry of Social Services, through an International Women's Day Grant Program, is providing funding support to enable 94 eligible community-based women's organizations to host 36 events throughout the month of March.
"Our government is pleased to support these International Women's Day initiatives that inspire leadership roles in our future generation of young women and girls," Draude said. "I encourage everyone, men and women, to join me in acknowledging the women and girls who contribute to making Saskatchewan the best place to live and work, to start a business, to get an education, to raise a family and build a life."
A complete list of the events being sponsored is available on the Status of Women website at http://www.socialservices.gov.sk.ca/2012-IWD.pdf.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Linda Saliken
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246