To mark Women’s History Month, Lieutenant-General Bourgon said in a  message on Oct. 5  that women have a significant role in the Canadian Armed Forces. Photo: supplied

Edited: K-J Millar
Shilo Stag

October is Women’s History Month in Canada. It’s a time to celebrate women, their achievements and all those who have worked tirelessly to advance women’s rights and promote gender equality, stated Lieutenant-General Lise Bourgon, Acting Commander of Military Personnel Command and the Defence Champion for Women, in a message on Oct. 5.

“As the Defence Champion for Women, I take great pride in celebrating the important contributions women of the Defence Team (DT) have made and continue to make to Canada and the world,” she said.

“The history of Canadian servicewomen is a [significant] part of our national military heritage.”

Canadian women served for the first time in military history as nurses in 1885. Since then, they have served in virtually every armed conflict and peacekeeping effort Canada has engaged in throughout the past century.

During the Second World War, more than 50,000 women joined Canada’s military in non-combat roles.

“At that time, women faced great criticism when they volunteered to enlist,” the Lt.-Gen said

“It is thanks to the collective efforts, service and sacrifice of women who came before us that Canada is a world leader when it comes to women’s inclusion and participation in military service, public service and greater society.”

Today, Canadian women can enroll in any military occupation, including operational trades, and serve in any environment. There is no limit to career opportunities in the Canadian Armed Forces for women and gender-diverse personnel. This makes it an exciting time to join, the Defence Champion for Women said.

‘I’m honoured to work with so many women, both members of the military and the public service, who continue to break down barriers by taking on important and challenging roles in national security, search and rescue and natural disasters response.”

She said much has changed since she joined the Forces in 1987 and she is looking forward to seeing where the next generation of DT members will lead.
Lt.-Gen. Bourgon offers encouragement to learn more about the history of Canadian service women and women of impact throughout the nation.

“Throughout … October, please join me in celebrating our achievements by using the hashtag #WomensHistoryMonth to share your story and join the conversation.”

She said it is important to note that October is also Menopause Awareness Month, and as such, it is a fitting moment to share that a new webpage offering resources will soon be launched for CAF members.

“We also celebrate International Day of the Girl Child on Oct. 11 and both World Menopause Awareness Day and Persons Day on Oct. 18. The latter marks the historic 1929 ruling from Canada’s highest court of appeal to include women in the legal definition of persons.”

“In this time of celebration, it is sobering to reflect on how far we have come in such a short period of time. I support all those who choose to mark these important events and milestones,” the CAF officer said.

“In the spirit of celebration, thank you, all women within our DT, for all you do. Together, we represent the vision and determination of all those who served and continue to serve our country.”