Vaughan, Ontario: The Honourable Julian Fantino, Associate Minister of National Defence and Member of Parliament for Vaughan, encourages all residents of Vaughan to gain an increased understanding of International Women’s Day. This year's theme is Strong Women, Strong Canada – Women in Rural, Remote and Northern Communities: Key to Canada’s Economic Prosperity. International Women’s Day is celebrated every 8th of March.

“International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate and be inspired by the accomplishments of women in Vaughan and across Canada," said Minister Fantino. "Our government continues to take targeted action that supports the prosperity of women and I remain committed to advancing their leadership.”

International Women's Day was marked for the first time in 1911 in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland. In 1977, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on member states to proclaim a day for women's rights and international peace.   Organizations that Minister Fantino routinely works with in Vaughan on women’s issues are the Empowerment Through Achievement Vaughan Women’s Shelter, Moving Forward and the Elspeth Heyworth Centre for Women. 

Minister Fantino encourages organizations that deal with women’s issues in Vaughan and the GTA to contact his office to learn about opportunities that benefit them. For further information on International Women's Day and International Women's Week, visit the Status of Women Canada web site at http://www.iwd.gc.ca.