Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to acknowledge International Women's Day. International Women's Day is held annually on March 8th to celebrate women and girls' social, cultural, and political achievements throughout history, across nations, and to raise awareness about the work left to be done. The theme of this year's International Women's Day is Because of You.
As Minister responsible for the Status of Women, and on behalf of all of Cabinet, I can proudly say that we are committed to continuing to work actively, achieving gender equality throughout our society. The theme Because of You celebrates women who work at advancing gender equality in all areas of our society for women and girls. The theme also asks Canadians to honour role models in their own lives.
Here in the Northwest Territories, we have many examples of outstanding role models who have made a difference. The Honourable Nellie Cournoyea is one such role model. She served as Premier from 1991 to 1995. She was not only the first female Premier of the Northwest Territories, she was the first female Indigenous Premier elected and the second female Premier to serve in Canada's history.
Another role model is Ethel Blondin-Andrew, who continues to advocate on behalf of the Sahtu and represented the people of the Northwest Territories as the first Indigenous woman elected to the Parliament of Canada. The late Bertha Allen, who co-founded the NWT Native Women's Association, was also a very important role model for many, as she fought tirelessly for social change and the advancement of Indigenous women and girls.
Another example of a Northern woman who stands as our role model includes Lyda Fuller, a long-time executive director of the YWCA right here in Yellowknife. Ms. Fuller is a nationally recognized advocate for women and girls. She is a strong voice in the fight against family violence, homelessness, and poverty. Another example is Leela Gilday, who is a well-known recording artist who not only incorporates but celebrates her Indigenous heritage in her music. These are just a few examples of strong women role models who we have here in the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, these women, along with many others, have worked hard to achieve their goals and to make a difference in their communities and in the North. Some are prominent figures and some work quietly behind the scenes. However they choose to achieve their goals, they are making a difference, and they are creating change. It is only right that we should acknowledge and celebrate the difference that they are making.
In keeping with this year's theme, I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and honour my esteemed female colleagues sitting with us in this House. Each of us, individually, when we decided to put our names forth to become a Member of this Legislative Assembly, sent a message that women can be effective leaders, that we can make a difference, and that we were willing to do the job required to make positive change. Being willing to pursue an elected position is not one decision we make lightly. There are many challenges that women face when seeking a leadership role. Role models inspire us to take on these leadership roles, and I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to those women who inspire each of us in one way or another.
Mr. Speaker, the voters in the Northwest Territories set an example for the rest of Canada when they elected nine women to the Legislative Assembly, which created the first gender-balanced Legislature in Canada's history. We should be proud of this achievement, and we should continue to work every day to achieve gender equity. We must work together to move this forward.
I invite all Members of the Legislative Assembly to join me in recognizing International Women's Day. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
