Louise Fish, Trent University’s director of risk management, is one of five individuals selected to receive a 2010 Governor General’s award commemorating the historic ‘Persons Case,’ a milestone in the fight for women’s rights in Canada.

The Governor General’s award pays tribute to five women from Alberta who in 1929 fought and won the right for women to be recognized as persons before the law, and thus eligible to sit in the Senate.

In making the award public, the Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, described Marie Louise Fish “…as a trailblazer for women in non-traditional roles, particularly in the Canadian Forces. Her military career reflects many women’s “firsts,” including being the first woman to serve at sea as a naval officer – at a time when there were very few women in the Canadian Navy. Upon retiring, Ms. Fish entered the field of university and college security administration, developing policies and practices that enhance women’s safety, and increasing the representation of women on security staff.”

Dr. Steven E. Franklin, president and vice-chancellor, praised Ms. Fish for her leadership in advancing women in non-traditional roles. “Louise has dedicated her career to public service and in the process has broken new ground for women in roles that were traditionally assumed by men. The Trent University community is very proud that one of our own is receiving this national recognition for the leadership she has displayed throughout her career in advancing women’s rights and equality.”

Comments from two nominees for the award speak to Louise Fish’s leadership role:

Vice-Admiral P.D. McFadden, CCM, CD, Chief of Maritime Staff noted, “When LCdr Fish first stepped forward in 1978 there were comparatively few women serving in Canada’s Navy, and absolutely none serving in operational roles at sea. Today, thanks in particular to such trailblazers as LCdr Fish, every job in Canada’s Navy is now fully open to women including service in submarines – and we are stronger for it.”

Vice-Admiral (Retired) Greg Jarvis, CCM, CD stated, “The eventual impact Louise’s determination upon the Navy is well known. She was the first female officer to serve at sea in both support and operational roles, and served as a role model to all. She shattered the barriers for those that followed, and this is well remembered. I recall speaking with a young female Supply Officer in 1991, over 10 years after Louise Fish first stepped onboard a ship. This young officer was about to proceed to sea in one of our newest combat ships as one of only two female officers onboard. I asked her if she felt any trepidation at the prospect, and she responded honestly – ‘yes,’ and then added in the same breath “but I’ve talked to Louise Fish and I know I can do it.”

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award, recognizing my lifelong commitment to women's equality, both in terms of our right to participate in all aspects of Canadian society, but also our responsibility to serve our society,” says Ms. Fish. “I am especially touched that my contribution has been noted and appreciated by my male naval colleagues on this, the 100th anniversary of the Canadian Navy. Finally, this award underscores the value of accessible education as the single most important factor in enabling and empowering women to achieve true equality.”

The Governor General’s award will be presented at a special ceremony at Rideau Hall on Monday, October 18, 2010. To learn more about the Governor General’s Person’s Case award visit:

http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2010/12/c9851.html