Michele Stephen

Michele Landsberg is a Canadian journalist, author, and feminist activist recognized for her extensive work in media and advocacy for social justice. Born in Toronto in 1939, she pursued higher education at the University of Toronto, earning a degree in English and literature. Her career began at The Globe and Mail, where she wrote under her maiden name to maintain editorial independence. She later held staff positions and wrote columns for prominent publications such as Chatelaine magazine and the Toronto Star, often focusing on issues of workplace sexual harassment, racial discrimination, and gender inequality in legal proceedings.

Landsberg authored several bestselling books, including "Women and Children First," "Michele Landsberg's Guide to Children's Books," and "This is New York, Honey!" Her activism extended to critiquing organizations like the False Memory Syndrome Foundation. In recognition of her contributions, she has received numerous awards, including National Newspaper Awards and an Officer of the Order of Canada. The Canadian Women's Foundation also established the Michele Landsberg Award in her honor.

Michele Landsberg established herself as a prominent journalist and social activist in Canada. Her early career at The Globe and Mail and later at Chatelaine magazine and the Toronto Star saw her tackle groundbreaking topics. She was among the first Canadian journalists to bring attention to critical social issues, including sexual harassment in professional environments, racial disparities in education and employment, and the unequal application of gender equality principles in divorce and child custody laws. Her tenure at the Toronto Star, where she wrote a regular column on feminist issues for over two decades, solidified her voice in public discourse. She also spent time in New York, contributing a weekly column on city life to The Globe and Mail.

As an author, Landsberg achieved bestseller status with three of her books. "Women and Children First" compiled her influential columns, offering insights into her campaigning journalism. "Michele Landsberg's Guide to Children's Books" provided readers with curated recommendations, while "This is New York, Honey!" offered a personal reflection on her experiences living in New York City as the spouse of Canada's ambassador to the United Nations. She also contributed "The Women's Dayenu," a piece exploring the historical roles and recognition of women within Judaism, using the traditional "Dayenu" refrain to highlight missed opportunities for female equality.

Landsberg's significant contributions to journalism and social activism have been widely recognized. She is a recipient of multiple accolades, including two National Newspaper Awards, the YWCA Women of Distinction Award, and the Robertine Barry Prize for journalism. In 2006, she was honored as an Officer of the Order of Canada. Further cementing her legacy, the Canadian Women's Foundation created the Michele Landsberg Award in 2005 to celebrate young women making significant achievements in media and activism. Her dedication to equality is further acknowledged by the Canadian Governor General's Award in Commemoration of the 1929 Persons Case.

“"The Women's Dayenu" (a liturgical-style piece reflecting on women's historical roles in Judaism)”