We maintain support for Dr. Bonnie Henry

Vancouver, BC. (December 27, 2020) – In October, the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST) presented a Letter of Support to Dr. Bonnie Henry, recognizing her efforts to keep Canadians safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. 

As British Columbians continue to struggle with COVID when most would normally be spending time with their families, Dr. Henry is in the challenging position of establishing guidelines that prevent many from doing so in order to curb spreading of the virus. While these guidelines have been widely met with acceptance and understanding from the public, others have been vocal about their frustrations and have actively ignored province-wide restrictions.

A vaccine roll-out was recently announced, resulting in these upcoming months being climactic in the fight against the pandemic. SCWIST believes that this crucial time makes it particularly important to voice our support for Dr. Henry.

Through her role as British Columbia’s Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Henry has captured local, national and global attention in her approach to navigating these new challenges using science-based and data-driven decision-making processes. She has also become a prominent public figure in STEM leadership for young girls and women across the country.

“During these turbulent times, you have been a steadying figure,” writes SCWIST President, Paloma Corvalan. “Through your strong leadership, you have been a role model to Canadians young and old.”

“We are proud to have you as an Honourary Life Member of SCWIST.”

SCWIST’s vision is to create an environment where Canadian women and girls can pursue their interests, education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math); Dr. Henry is a clear example of a strong leader within STEM.

Corvalan writes, “Thanks to your work and visibility, girls and young women across Canada can see themselves as leaders and be encouraged to pursue their interest in STEM.”

In the letter, SCWIST provides words of encouragement to Dr. Henry: “We are honoured that you are one of us and we want you to know that we are with you!”

“As a professional organization that empowers girls and women in STEM, we are proud to support you and your fellow Health Officers, and the scientific approach that you take.”

Written by Mandy McDougall, a Digital Content Creator and Youth Engagement Committee Member for SCWIST. Outside of SCWIST, she is an Environmental Scientist in Vancouver, Canada. 

About SCWIST

SCWIST is a not-for-profit society that specializes in improving the presence and influence of women and girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) in Canada. SCWIST promotes participation and advancement through education, networking, mentorship, collaborative partnerships, and advocacy. To learn more, visit https://scwist.ca/.