On behalf of her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Cheryl Gallant, Member of Parliament for Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke, awarded Joanne Brooks the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, created to mark the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne.

JoAnne Brooks’ many contributions to Women’s Rights in Renfrew-Nipissing-Pembroke are renowned. She has dedicated decades of her life toward the safety and protection of women.

JoAnne’s significant accomplishments include:

• her commitment to social justice issues, especially violence against women and children and in particular survivors of sexual violence;

• public education efforts for ‘Take Back The Night’; and

• advocacy for L.G.B.T. issues.

“I was delighted to honour JoAnne today, because of her lifelong advocacy of championing women’s rights” stated Ms. Gallant.

“JoAnne’s service to her peers, her community and to her country is evident. I join with her collegues and family to convey our praise and admiration to JoAnne as a true Canadian,” she added.

JoAnne has lived in Renfrew County since 1981 – 31 years. She is a proud mom of three adult children – Katelyn, Matthew and Emily Ott; and a three-year-old granddaughter, Alexis Ott.

JoAnne has held many interesting positions in her years in Renfrew County, including helping co-ordinate the first rape crisis centre in Renfrew County in 1993.