The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women:

Mr. Speaker, October 11 is International Day of the Girl.  When this day was first recognized, there was an oath we were asked to take. In part it stated, “We celebrate because girls are leaders; girls make a difference; girls’ rights matter.” Those words are as significant today as they were eight years ago.

With this year’s theme of “My voice, our equal future” in mind, girls from all walks of life are working together to boldly demand action against discrimination, violence and lesser learning opportunities.

Mr. Speaker, I want our girls to know that we are listening and we hear their call.

Our government supports girls in our province and we are dedicated to ensuring their social and economic safety and wellbeing. I encourage all girls in Newfoundland and Labrador to find your voice, tell your story, be who you are and take your seat at the table.

I ask all Honourable Members to join me in pledging to support, mentor and sponsor girls’ dreams and ambitions at every opportunity.  Let us work to empower our girls and ensure a bright future for them all.