International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, provides a splendid opportunity to appreciate the accomplishments of women in history and all they have had to endure. From pioneers in science and politics to influential civil rights activist and thought-provoking writers, Canada has an impressive calibre of women who have not only made Canada a better place to live in but have also left an indelible mark on the global stage.
Viola Desmond
You might have seen this impressive woman in your pocket in the form of your ten-dollar bill. Fittingly, The Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg is depicted on the reverse side. Desmond is Canada’s own Rosa Parks. In 1946, Desmond courageously resisted leaving the white-only section of the Roseland Theatre in Nova Scotia, leading to her conviction with charges that persisted throughout her lifetime. Beyond her activism, Desmond played a pivotal role in empowering young black women in business, mentoring them as beauticians and inspiring them to forge independent careers. Through her beauty school and a line of products tailored for the black community, she stands tall as one of Canada’s most influential women and civil rights activists.
Agnes Macphail
Agnes Macphail, born on March 24, 1890, in Ontario, was a trailblazer who became the first woman elected to the House of Commons in 1921, serving until 1940. Her impact extended beyond Parliament, as she was also a member of the Ontario legislature and the League of Nations’ Canadian Delegation. Macphail’s dedication to equality was evident in her championing of Ontario’s first equal pay legislation in 1951, making her a pioneering force in Canadian politics. A true advocate for the marginalized, she fought for the rights of miners, immigrants, prisoners, and women, challenging antiquated expectations, and becoming a voice for feminist transformation.
Lucy Maud Montgomery
Easily one of Canada’s finest authors, Montgomery put Canadian literature on the map paving the way for other Canadian writers such as Margaret Atwood. Best known for her novel Anne of Green Gables, Montgomery was the first Canadian member to be inaugurated as a member of the British Royal Society of Arts.
Prince Edward Island can forever be grateful to Lucy for creating a world for Anne Shirley which many little girls enjoy reading about.
Mary Ann Shad Cary
Now this woman has an impressive resume. A journalist, educator, publisher, lawyer, editor, women’s rights activist, and abolitionist, Mary Ann Shad Cary was the first black woman in North America to publish and edit a newspaper, The Provincial Freeman.
She gave a voice to the voiceless at the time. She advocated for the end of slavery and the emigration of African Americans to Canada, finding it a welcoming home for everyone.
Dr Lillian Dyck
Dr. Lillian Dyck, Canada’s first Indigenous woman to earn a PhD in Science, shattered stereotypes as the first Indigenous female senator and the first Chinese Canadian senator. Dyck was born to a Cree mother and Chinese father. Dyck’s commitment to advocating for Indigenous rights extended to her work in science, where she delved into understanding neuropsychiatric diseases like Alzheimer’s and Schizophrenia.
The Firth Sisters
Shirley and Sharon Firth are twin sisters who pioneered the way for Indigenous athletes. They competed at four Olympic Winter Games as cross-country skiers and were a part of the first Canadian Women’s Olympic cross-country ski team. As members of the Gwich’in First Nation Indigenous group, these sisters have an impressive, combined total of 79 medals (National Championships) and 48 national titles under their belt.
The Countless Others
While the accomplishments of these remarkable women are highlighted, it is essential to acknowledge the countless others who have contributed to gender equality in Canada. Figures such as Margaret Atwood, Elsie MacGill, Kenojuak Ashevak, Nancy Greene Raine, and many more deserve recognition on this special day.
This International Women’s Day, let us celebrate and honour the legacies of these incredible Canadian women who have shaped our history and continue to inspire generations to come.
