Subjects: EXE, WOM, FOR
Minister Monsef Promotes the Empowerment of Girls at United Nations
International Day of the Girl Celebrates its Fifth Anniversary
NEW YORK CITY, Oct. 11, 2017 /CNW/ - Canadians believe that every girl around the world deserves an equal start in life and the chance to grow to her full potential. Today, the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Minister of Status of Women, marked the International Day of the Girl today at the United Nations in New York City.
During her visit to the UN, the Minister met with UNICEF and UN officials, and ambassadors from multiple continents where she discussed the barriers to development faced by girls and young women around the world and areas where all nations can do more.
She delivered remarks at several functions throughout the day, including the "EmPOWER Girls" event at UNICEF House. The event brought together many girls and young women from different parts of the world to tell their stories about the challenges they face in humanitarian emergencies and remind everyone of the power of a girl. The discussions included examples of efforts to prevent and address gender-based violence and what steps need to be taken to better empower girls and young women to have more control over their own lives.
Throughout the day, the Minister had the opportunity to take part in multiple International Day of the Girl celebrations, commend the efforts already taking place to promote girls' well-being around the world, as well as promote the Government of Canada's commitment to gender equality, including through its international assistance efforts.
Quotes
"We've all known girls whose voice and actions remind us of the power of a girl, from Malala Yousafzai, to Raven Lacerte and Faith Dickinson. We know that in any humanitarian crisis, everyone suffers, but women and girls suffer more. The message I have for you today from the Government of Canada is that we are ready, willing and able to collaborate with governments everywhere to help achieve this very important goal."
The Honourable Maryam Monsef, P.C., M.P.
Minister of Status of Women
Quick Facts
- This year's International Day of the Girl marks the beginning of a year-long effort to spur global attention and action to the challenges and opportunities girls face before, during, and after crises.
- October is Women's History Month in Canada, a time to celebrate ? and communicate ? the stories of the trailblazing women who have shaped our country. Women's History Month includes International Day of the Girl on October 11 and Persons Day on October 18.
- To celebrate International Day of the Girl 2017, we are inviting Canadians to tell us about the amazing girls in their lives who are making a difference. If you know a girl who's leaving her mark on the world, encourage her to share her story on social media using the hashtag #ClaimYourPlace.
- Last year, Canada was elected to hold a seat on the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women for the 2017-2021 term, which begins following this year's session. This will provide Canada with valuable opportunities to shape the Commission's future work on issues that affect women and girls.
- Canada has adopted a Feminist International Assistance Policy to promote gender equality and help empower all women and girls around the world. The Government of Canada will support efforts to reduce sexual and gender-based violence, strengthen women's organizations and movements that advance women's rights, improve governments' capacity to provide services to women and girls and improve gender analysis.
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