OTTAWA, ON, March 8, 2022 – Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson presented the Key to the City to the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean at the Mayor’s annual International Women’s Day breakfast this morning, in recognition of her illustrious and distinguished career as a journalist, 27th Governor General of Canada, UNESCO Special Envoy for Haiti and third Secretary General for La Francophonie.
The event was co-hosted by Councillor Theresa Kavanagh, Council Liaison for Women and Gender Equity, and Michaëlle Jean delivered the keynote speech.
“Michaëlle Jean has had a remarkable career, serving our country with grace, fearlessly promoting peace and working to support women and youth. I am especially honoured to present Michaëlle Jean with the Key to the City today, on International Women’s Day, as we celebrate the incredible accomplishments of women in Ottawa and around the world.”
Mayor Jim Watson
Starting in her 20s and for over 10 years, Michaëlle Jean has been active within the Quebec women’s movement, working tirelessly to help build a vast network with hundreds of emergency shelters for battered women and their children.
A woman of action and vision, Michaëlle Jean has demonstrated fearless commitment in the promotion of peace, including in countering terrorism, radicalization and extremism. Humanistic values, courage, tenaciousness, along with indomitable optimism and creativity are hallmarks of her character.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is #BreakTheBias, which aims to imagine a gender equal world. Women and gender equity is key to building a vibrant and inclusive community, and the City’s Women and Gender Equity Strategy continues to guide the City’s work in removing barriers and improving access for all women and gender diverse persons.
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