BWSS Observes Persons Day

On October 18th is Persons Day in Canada, a pivotal moment in the history of women’s rights. It commemorates the day in 1929 when Canadian women were legally recognized as “persons” under the law. This breakthrough came after a long and hard-fought legal battle known as the Persons Case, initiated by five remarkable women—Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney, and Henrietta Muir Edwards—collectively known as the Famous Five. The Supreme Court initially ruled against them, but the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council in Britain overturned that decision, marking a historic win for women’s rights and allowing women to serve in the Senate.

While the Persons Case was a monumental victory, it did not extend its benefits to all women. Indigenous women, women of colour, and other marginalized groups continued to face systemic barriers to their legal and social rights, which we still face today. BWSS advocates for the recognition of these ongoing struggles and the need for an intersectional approach to gender justice.

Today, BWSS continues the fight for substantive equality for all women and gender-diverse individuals, recognizing that legal recognition is just one step on the path to justice.

BWSS provides comprehensive support services, legal advocacy, and public education aimed at ensuring that all survivors of gender-based violence are heard, supported, and empowered. As we reflect on the legacy of Persons Day, we are reminded that the work of achieving true equality is far from over. Legal victories must be paired with systemic change to ensure safety, justice, and equity for all women.

BWSS honours Persons Day as a testament to the power of collective action and remains committed to addressing the gaps in legal protections for marginalized women, girls and femmes.