A statue of the Famous 5 in downtown Calgary. (Photo 20607841 © Jeff Whyte | Dreamstime.com)

By rdnewsNOW Staff

Breaking down gender barriers

Alberta’s Persons Case Scholarship now open for students advancing gender equality

Oct 18, 2023 | 11:45 PM

The Government of Alberta has announced the “Persons Case Scholarship” is now open for those studying in fields that advance gender equality.

In 1928, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled that women were not “persons”. One year later, that ruling was overturned due to the actions and advocacy of five Albertan women – Emily Murphy, Henrietta Edwards, Nellie McClung, Louise McKinney and Irene Parlby – through the Persons Case. These five women, known as the Famous Five, are credited with the decision to grant women the right to serve in Canada’s Senate.

“Alberta has a long, proud history of being home trailblazers and leaders. This scholarship will keep that groundbreaking spirit alive by encouraging work to continue so everyone has an equal opportunity to pursue a rewarding and prosperous future,” said Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education.

The Persons Case Scholarship, now entering its 44th year, aims to honour the spirit and advocacy of the Famous Five, supporting students enrolled in the arts, humanities and social sciences programs that work to close gender gaps or in areas where their gender is underrepresented.

“We are proud to continue this important scholarship that helps Albertans break down barriers and honours the Famous Five. Scholarships motivate our post-secondary students to become leaders while making our communities and workplaces more inclusive for everyone,” said Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women.

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A total of $100,000 is available through the program and up to 40 students will receive $2,500 each for their studies. Eligible applicants must be Alberta residents registered in undergraduate study at an approved Alberta post-secondary institution or a graduate program in Alberta or elsewhere. Applications close Dec. 8.

“We are grateful to the Government of Alberta for continuing to honour Canada’s democratic champions by enabling more women to fulfil their right to be educated, particularly on the 94th anniversary of the ‘Persons’ Case. The Famous Five urge women and girls to ‘feel equal to high and splendid braveries!’,” said Frances Wright, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of the Famous 5 Foundation.