Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY RECEPTION
Government House
Thursday, March 7, 2024
(please check against delivery)
Friends, sisters, fellow Manitobans, it is my pleasure to welcome you to Government House for this celebration of International Women’s Day.
I begin by acknowledging with gratitude and respect that this beautiful home and this city are located in the heart of Treaty One land and the homeland of the Red River Metis.
Here, in the ancestral and present-day home of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuit and Metis peoples, we are committed to hearing the wisdom of the grandmothers – and all women – as we work for reconciliation, healing and opportunities for all.
I am thinking that you might be wondering how it was that you came to be invited to join us today. Well, let me tell you.
I, and my team are always looking and listening for stories about outstanding Manitobans – in this case women – who through their words and deeds make our city, province and world a better place for all.
So, at some point over the past year – whether through media, a chance meeting or a shared story, your contributions to our community have been noticed.
As I look around this room, I am in awe about the number of Manitoba women, like you, who continue to be such shining examples of power, change and influence in our communities. Every day you work to breakdown barriers and advance equity.
You were invited here today in recognition of the good work you continue to do, whether as volunteers or professionals, in making our province better and inspiring others to follow suit.
Each of you is a worthy role model, not only for other women, but for everyone striving to make a difference in the world.
International Women’s Day is the day we remember and celebrate women leaders and women’s rights activists both in our own neighbourhood and worldwide. This day provides a forum to highlight the larger discussion that human rights are women’s rights, that gender parity and inclusivity are important to our well-being.
We are aware of the many challenges in crisis that take place in other parts of the world, many among us fight for the advancement of human and reproductive rights. Many search for freedom from sexual harassment and gender based violence be it an intimate partner, through violence, or as a weapon of war.
Overarching among many Canadian women is the call for justice for all indigenous women. This is part of our identity here and abroad.
While we are not immune to those injustices, we can use our voices, talents and experiences to effect change for those around us. Through both baby steps and grand gestures, women must continue to work towards genuine equality.
The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is “Invest in Women; Accelerate Progress.” I am sure you will agree that is good advice, as well as a sound strategy for success in any endeavor.
Through your achievements big and small, and the positive example you have set for your family, friends, and community, you personify the value of investing in women and the progress that inevitably results. Bravo!
On the eve of International Women’s Day, I honour each of you. Every day, you show Manitobans why the world celebrates the contributions made by women in all aspects of our society.
I hope you are proud of who you are, what you have achieved, and remind yourself of the many people whose lives are better because of you. The contributions that each of you made in your own sphere of influence is truly amazing
I hope you will take the opportunity this evening to connect with other outstanding Manitoba women. One never knows knows what creative ideas and collaborations may come out of a first hello or a glass of wine.
Thank you for what you do, and the many good things I know you will do in the future. Our province, our world, today and for generations to come, is better for your efforts.
Thank you. Merci. Meegwich. Shalom.
