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The Fredericton Daily Gleaner
2004.10.21
A5
MARK TAYLOR for The Daily Gleaner

Award recipient feels vindicated

A former Fredericton woman will take centre stage in Ottawa today for her work in the advancement of equality.

Allison Brewer, who now lives in Iqaluit, Nunavut, is a recipient of the Governor General's Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case.

The award recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions to the quality of life for women in Canada.

"I feel very honoured and very humbled by this," Brewer told the Daily Gleaner this week.

The persons case, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, marked a crucial moment in Canadian history as five women won a decision to have women considered persons in Canada's constitution. Brewer is among six other recipients from across the country, including Moncton's Huberte Gautreau.

Brewer has spent many years involved in a number of causes, ranging from women's rights to the gay rights.

She helped to establish Fredericton Lesbians and Gays (FLAG) and managed the Morgentaler abortion clinic for several years.

The object of criticism for her work, Brewer said she feels vindicated by the award.

She said she also believes the Governor General's honour speaks well of how far the homosexual community has come.

"We've evolved in Canada to such a place where sexual-orientation issues aren't looked at with horror but with acceptance," she said. Brewer has also worked with the labour movement and people with disabilities.

"I feel very privileged to be able to do the work that I do," she said.

There has been support from various sources, including friends and family, Brewer said.

Status of Women Canada was involved in the selection of Brewer for her award.

Status of Women Canada spokesperson Christina Clemis said Brewer's nomination for the honour received many letters of support.

"Everything that had been sent in had been phenomenal," she said.

Clemis said Brewer exemplifies the objective of the award.

"In pretty much every aspect of her life, she's tried to make sure there's equality for everyone," Clemis said.

Brewer, who now advises the Nunavut government on women's issues, said she feels happy in her new home.

She said she has seen many amazing things since moving to the area about four years ago.

For example, Brewer said, a local picnic in which she has participated has people together with members of the gay community. More than 300 attended the event this past summer, she said.

Brewer will receive her award at a special ceremony in Ottawa. She will be joined by a number of loved ones, including her mother and three children, Will, Anna and Oliver.

Brewer, who still has family in Fredericton, said she hasn't forgotten the city.

"Fredericton always will hold a soft spot in my heart," she said.

Her future is clear, Brewer said.

"The work is not done."

She said there are a number of issues to tackle, including seeing same-sex marriage recognized.


Retour à revue de presse Octobre 2004