Statement in the House of Commons

Women's History Month

Ms. Judy Sgro (York West, Lib.): Mr. Speaker, October is Women's History Month when many women will be recognized for the ways that they have helped shape Canadian society. I am proud to stand in this House today to celebrate Dr. Emily Howard Jennings Stowe for her contribution in the field of medicine.

Dr. Stowe began her career as a teacher in Ontario and at the age of 23 became Ontario's first female school principal. After her husband's death and with three children to support, Emily pursued a career in medicine.

Barred from medical school in Canada because she was a woman, she trained in the U.S.A. and returned to Canada in 1867 to practice medicine. She became the first practising woman doctor in Canada and went on to crusade for women's suffrage and the rights of women.

Dr. Stowe co-founded the Toronto Women's Medical College, ensuring women had equal opportunities in the medical profession. Today there are over 11,000 female practitioners in Canada, some of whom are members of this House. This figure represents 30% of the nation's total. Women continue to make their mark in the medical field.