October 11 has been declared by the United Nations as International Day of the Girl. This day is celebrated world-wide to recognize girls and young women as powerful voices of change in their families, communities and nations. In Saskatchewan, the theme of this special day is 鈥淐hallenging Stereotypes and Promoting Leadership in Non-Traditional Roles.鈥�
鈥淚nternational Day of the Girl aligns with our government鈥檚 goal of educating, training and developing a skilled workforce in Saskatchewan,鈥� Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for the Status of Women Donna Harpauer said. 鈥淭he Girl Guides of Canada exemplifies this vision as they work to break down barriers and overcome gender stereotypes to help girls and women reach their potential. We are proud to support their efforts, and to honour International Day of the Girl in Saskatchewan.鈥�
International Day of the Girl is an opportunity to profile Saskatchewan girls who are leaders and role models in their communities through their involvement in challenging gender stereotypes. This includes girls and young women who are involved in Girl Guides of Canada-Guides du Canada, an organization that enables girls to be confident, resourceful and courageous, and to make a difference in the world.
鈥淕irl Guides of Canada is a girl-serving organization and a member of the largest voluntary movement for girls and women worldwide,鈥� Girl Guides of Canada Saskatchewan Council Provincial Commissioner Charlene McLean said. 鈥淥ur involvement with International Day of the Girl focuses on the challenges that girls, here and around the world, experience daily. Leadership is a key driver of change, and our goal is to offer opportunities for girls to step into leadership roles, gain skills and develop confidence. International Day of the Girl is a way to raise awareness and encourage action to eliminate global gender inequality.鈥�
The Status of Women Office in the Ministry of Social Services is raising awareness of International Day of the Girl by partnering with the Girl Guides of Canada Saskatchewan Council.
Canadians celebrated the first International Day of the Girl on October 11, 2012. A tradition has begun where girls who are leaders of today and tomorrow are recognized as agents of change. Specific issues related to girls will be highlighted both in Canada and internationally on this special day.
