There are several significant days recognizing women’s issues and gains for equality. ETFO encourages all Ontarians to learn about and mark these days.
The Famous Five achieved not only the right for women to serve in the Senate, but they and their many contributions paved the way for women to participate in other aspects of public life.
The assertion of women's rights is now honoured by the Governor General's Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case.
Recipients of these awards continue the tradition of courage, integrity, and hard work which the Famous Five of the Persons Case inspired. Their effectiveness and courage has advanced the cause of equality for girls and women in significant and substantial ways that have enriched their communities. Five awards are given annually in October to candidates chosen from across Canada, in addition to one Youth award.
Nomination forms and complete awards eligibility criteria are available from Status of Women Canada.
Learn more here.
We celebrate Equality Day to mark the coming into force of the equality provisions in the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms on April 17, 1985. The Charter was signed by Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau on April 17, 1982. However, Section 15 was not implemented for another three years, to allow federal, provincial, and territorial governments to analyze all their laws and amend them as necessary.
Learn more here.
On Dec. 6, 1989, 14 young women were killed at the École Polytechnique in Montreal in what has become known as the Montreal Massacre. Their tragic deaths remind us of the frightening reality that dozens of women die violently every year in this country. This day has been declared a national day of mourning and action.
Learn more and find resources here.
For member resources, ETFO members can log in to the Secure site.
Each year on March 8, International Women’s Day (IWD), women around the world take time to celebrate the achievements of women and to reflect on our current status, demanding legal and economic equality and freedom from violence.
International Women’s Day has its roots in the international labour, socialist, and peace movements that were active early in the 20th century. IWD has been celebrated on March 8 since 1917 and is a national holiday in many countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.
Like Labour Day, International Women’s Day provides a focus for the necessary activism of the day. ETFO is committed to advancing gender equality. Read the ETFO equity statement [link to equity statement] and human rights statement [link to human rights statement] here. You can find more information on ETFO’s gender equity initiatives here [link to women’s issues section].
Learn more here.
For member resources, ETFO members can log in to the Secure site.
November 25th marks the start of two anti-violence campaigns:
Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender Violence (November 25 to December 10)
From November 25 to December 10, ETFO is participating in the 16 Days of Action, a global campaign to raise awareness about gender-based violence. By sharing messages and images posted on @ETFOeducators social media accounts (a few are shown below) you can add your voice to this important conversation. Speak out, reflect and act to end violence against women and girls.
The White Ribbon (November 25 to December 6)
This campaign provides an opportunity for boys and men to work together to end violence against women. Education and Action kits are available from the White Ribbon.
Learn more here.
For member resources, ETFO members can log in to the Secure site.
Women's History Month represents an opportunity to highlight the past and present contributions of women to Canadian society and to recognize the achievements of women from all walks of life as a vital part of our Canadian heritage. It also provides an opportunity to highlight how we all benefit today from the achievements of the original Famous Five and other women activists in the quest for women's equality. And, foremost, it represents an ideal opportunity to instill a sense of pride in our historic origins as well as to provide role models for all Canadian women - young and less young.
Learn more here.
For member resources, ETFO members can log in to the Secure site.
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