Women’s History Month in Canada is a national celebration held annually during October, honoring prominent Canadian women and girls and recognizing their achievements and contributions to the country. The month also provides an opportunity to acknowledge the struggles Canadian women had faced in the past and identify the actions needed to achieve equality for all women, including LGBTQ, immigrants, and minority groups in the future.
The Government of Canada designated Women’s History Month in 1992 after a successful lobbying campaign initiated by a group of women from Victoria, British Columbia. They selected the month of October since on October 18th, 1929, Canadian women were legally declared ‘persons’ and were eligible to get elected to the Senate. Therefore, the highlight of Women’s History Month is Persons Day, celebrated on October 18th.
There are many ways to join the festivities:
- Read a book by your favorite Canadian author, like Lucy Maud Montgomery or Margaret Atwood
- Learn about inspiring Canadian women
- Visit historic sites associated with notable Canadian women. Use this link to find a nearby landmark
- Organize a special event for your friends, family, or community and celebrate women’s legacy in Canada
- Support local businesses owned by women
- Watch a film, a TV show, or a play about women in Canada
- Follow a self-guided tour. Options include Laura Secord’s walk, one of Lucy Maud Montgomery’s trails, or the Women’s Eyes On Ottawa Walking Tour
