October was Women’s History Month in Canada. Proclaimed in 1992 by the government of Canada, Women’s History Month provides an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the important contributions of women and girls to our society — and to the quality of our lives today.
This year the Penticton Museum donated exhibit space in the main lobby between the library and museum for Penticton & Area Women’s Centre. Over the course of the month PAWC displayed two main exhibits: how far women have come in education, and history about women’s events organized by PAWC. All these displays give tribute to women role models who inspire us.
Women have had a major role in all aspects of our history. For example, during the First World War, more than 2,800 women served with the Canadian Army Medical Corps.
Did you know in 1929 “women as persons” was a hotly contended issue, giving rise to the Persons Case, headed up by the Famous Five. Although the results of the case only recognized women as “persons qualified” for appointment to the Senate, the media at the time declared “Women are Persons!” Today we have 67 women in the House of Commons. Did you know that it wasn’t until the 1960s that you could study women’s history in university.
Penticton & Area Women’s Centre would like everyone to celebrate the history of women in their families and community by saying thank you to all the grandmothers, mothers, sisters and aunties that have helped create the opportunities for all of us.
Angelika Eneas, event facilitator
Penticton and Area Women’s Centre