Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case

Madeleine Boscoe, of North Vancouver, British Columbia, has dedicated more than 30 years to improving women’s health in Canada.

Nancy Hartling, of Riverview, New Brunswick, is a passionate advocate for women, focusing on domestic violence and poverty.

Lucie Joyal, of Boucherville, Quebec, has worked tirelessly for more than two decades to eliminate violence against women and children.

Sharon Donna McIvor, of Merritt, British Columbia, has devoted close to three decades of her life to advancing equality for Aboriginal women.

Kim Pate, of Ottawa, Ontario, is an internationally recognized advocate for marginalized, victimized and criminalized women.

Youth Award recipient, Amber JoAnn Fletcher, of Regina, Saskatchewan, is an advocate for equality issues and social justice.

In 1929, five women from Alberta won the judiciary battle to be recognized as persons, therefore making them eligible for appointment to the Senate. The Governor General’s Awards in Commemoration of the Persons Case were established in 1979, by the Government of Canada, with the support of then-Governor General the Right Honourable Edward Schreyer, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this historic decision. These awards highlight Canadian contributions to the advancement of women’s equality and celebrate Canada’s evolution as an inclusive society.

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, presented the Governor General’s Awards in commemoration of the Persons Case to six laureates during a ceremony at Rideau Hall.