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Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada and the Canadian Federation for Women’s Health Journalism Award Recipients 2005

Quebec, Quebec – June 20, 2005 – The SOGC/CFWH is pleased to announce the 2005 Journalism Award Recipients. The SOGC/CFWH Journalism Award for Excellence in Women's Reproductive Health Reporting recognizes outstanding reporting on women's reproductive health issues appearing in consumer newspapers, magazines and broadcasts across Canada.

Accurate, responsible and insightful communication enables women to make informed health and lifestyle choices. In such, the SOGC and the CFWH designed this award to highlight journalism’s valuable service to the public.

2005 Award Winners

Shelley Page
The Ottawa Citizen
“Birth of a Crisis”

This series investigated women’s reproductive rights in Kenya, while also looking at the plight of women throughout the developing world. Ms. Page interviewed women in the poorest parts of Kenya, from Maasai Mara region to the slums in Nairobi. She talked to these women about their inability to exercise their reproductive rights or access contraception. The series focused on the consequences of the Bush administration’s “Global Gag Law” which has resulted in the closing of dozens of family planning clinics.

André Picard
The Globe and Mail
“Generations of Family Planning”

This series looks at an issue that preoccupies virtually every woman in Canada but which is rarely spoken of in the mainstream media – contraception. The series tackles a number of taboo topics, from menstrual suppression to the morning after pill, in a straightforward and informative manner; the related controversies are put into much-needed context, and the tough personal decisions surrounding contraceptives choices are given human face.

Both recipients received their awards at the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada’s Annual Clinical Meeting in Quebec City.

For more information on the award or the SOGC please visit www.sogc.org

About the SOGC

Founded in 1944, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada is comprised of over 2,700 professional members, including gynaecologists, obstetricians, family physicians, nurses, midwives and allied health professionals. A leading authority on reproductive health care, the SOGC produces national guidelines for both public and medical education on important women's health issues. The Society's mission is to promote optimal women's health through leadership, collaboration, education, research and advocacy in the practice of obstetrics and gynaecology.

Last Updated April 19, 2007