Name: Shirley M. Robinson
Role: Advocate for equality for women in the military
Canadian Military Contribution: Long-time advocate for equality for women in the military
Lieutenant-Colonel (Retired) Shirley Robinson served with distinction in the Canadian military for some 30 years, taking on a variety of challenging roles on both the operational and administrative side of the forces. Shirley originally trained as a nurse, a profession she credits for her strong self-discipline. For decades, she has been a passionate and dedicated advocate for equality for women in the military – both in employment and in the conditions women face as they serve. While in the military, one of Shirley's key roles was as Deputy Director of Women Personnel. Hearing first-hand the experiences of discrimination and harassment faced by women in the military, she became convinced not enough was being done to address gender-based issues. Even in retirement, Shirley has dedicated herself to removing gender-based barriers in the military, opening doors so women can choose from the full range of career paths available today, including combat roles. Much of her work has been channeled through the Association for Women's Equity in the Armed Forces, which she co-founded in 1985. Shirley has authored a number of publications and articles on women in the military and their human rights. In 1992, she received the Governor General's Award in Commemoration of the Persons Case, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the quality of life of women in Canada.