Reflecting on Persons Day 2010

MLA Report

In case it's not in your calendar, October 18 was the day we celebrated Persons Day in Canada. It recognizes the court decision on Oct. 18, 1929, finding that women were to be considered "persons" for all purposes under the British North America Act.

On Persons Day, we celebrate the legacy of Nellie McClung, Emily Murphy, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Louise McKinney and Irene Parlby. These women, known as the 'Famous Five,' fought and won the right of women to be recognized as 'Persons' under the British North America Act.

The Persons Case eliminated a key barrier to women's participation in politics, specifically the Canadian Senate. However, women continue to be underrepresented in public office. I believe we must re-double our efforts to ensure that women are adequately represented in government and politics in British Columbia and Canada.

Eighty-one years later, the Famous Five continue to be an inspiration to all Canadians, and an important reminder that we must ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute to our economy and our society, as well as in the political realm.

In the words of Emily Murphy in 1931:"We want women leaders today as never before. Leaders who are not afraid to be called names and who are willing to go out and fight. I think women can save civilization. Women are persons."