Cairine Wilson

Cairine Reay Wilson (Known as "Senator Wilson")

First Woman Appointed to the Senate of Canada (1930), Refugee Advocate

Born Feb 04, 1885

Montreal, Canada

Passed Away Mar 03, 1962 Ottawa, Canada

Lifespan 77 years old

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Notice / Correction

"We cannot close our eyes to the suffering of humanity without imperiling our own soul."

Archival Overview

Pioneering social activist who made history in February 1930 as the first woman appointed to the Senate of Canada, and who fiercely fought anti-Semitic immigration restrictions to welcome European refugees.

Biographical Record

Daughter of wealthy Montreal senator Robert Mackay, Wilson was a dedicated philanthropist and co-founder of the Ottawa Women's Liberal Club. Four months after the Privy Council's 1929 Persons Case ruling, Prime Minister Mackenzie King appointed her to the Senate of Canada.

During the 1930s and 1940s, Wilson served as president of the League of Nations Society in Canada and fought against xenophobic immigration policies, helping thousands of Jewish, Czech, and Austrian refugees find sanctuary in Canada. In 1949, she became Canada's first female delegate to the United Nations General Assembly.

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Rest in Peace Forever remembered and cherished Your legacy lives on in all of us With deep gratitude for your life and light

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Final Resting Place

Perpetual Memorial

Beechwood Cemetery
Ottawa, Canada

                         GPS: 45.4450, -75.6600                    

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