Famous 5 Exhibit Opens

More than 70 years after women became persons under the law in Canada, the Famous 5 have arrived in the country's oldest legislature.

An exhibit honouring the five Alberta women who in 1929 challenged Canada's highest court in the so-called 'Persons' case opened today at Province House in Halifax.

"Their determination opened the door for all citizens of Canada to participate in all facets of public life," said Murray Scott, Speaker of the Nova Scotia legislature, as he opened the exhibit.

"Emily Murphy, Henrietta Muir Edwards, Louise McKinney, Irene Parlby and Nellie McClung did more than open doors for women," said Jane Purves, the Minister responsible for the Advisory Council on the Status of Women. "The Famous 5 decision also marks the start of what is considered the evolution towards the Canadian Constitution.

"This tour and exhibit are a reminder to us all of the contributions made by women in building this nation."

The exhibit in Halifax includes a 66-centimetre (26-inch) bronze maquette of a sculpture of the five women. Two identical sculptures will be permanent reminders of the achievements of the Famous 5. One was unveiled in Calgary on Oct. 18, 1999, the 70th anniversary of the decision. The second will be unveiled on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Oct. 18, 2000, to mark the end of the tour.

The Famous 5 monuments were sculpted by Edmonton artist Barbara Paterson and depict the five women as they may have been when they received news of their victory. The exhibit can be viewed at Province House from Aug. 24 to Sept. 15.