You know there has been so much in the news lately about all of this and I really debated whether I should comment on it or not, but I decided I wanted to share my thoughts as they relate to women considering a run in politics and being supporters of women in politics.
I am sure most of you like me have been watching the drama in Ottawa unravel daily, if not hourly at times. At first I was impressed with Jody and her testimony. But honestly it filled me with dread of what was to come. I was so elated with the number of women on the Hill and so many with impressive resumes. Now we had women in charge of very important portfolios including the Attorney General. Pretty amazing times for women in Canadian politics.
Then the resignations rocked my world. I have been listening and reading and asking questions about why, why resign? And not only why resign, but why stay in the caucus? But I still struggle with it and my feelings of personal disappointment. These women held powerful and influential positions, where they could help real change happen. Positive change for women and the indigenous community to name just the immediate ministries. We had the powerful intelligent voices of these women and it was a beautiful thing.
Both of these women say they have resigned because of personal principles and a lack of confidence in the government. I am so, so sad to see them leave, it is a huge loss. But for me the loss feels personal. I have been a huge advocate for women in politics. I feel they bring a different point of view, and important voice to the world of politics at all levels, Municipal, Provincial and Federal. I will not always agree with them, but I am fighting hard to make sure they at least have a chance to be heard. This feels a bit like we have entered a team in the race, and the team captains quit just as we were about to cross the finish line, leaving us all sweaty and confused and being sent home because they didn't want to be in the game anymore, and go hang the rest of us.
Not everyone will agree with me, and that is ok, we live in a safe democratic society where we can disagree with respect. But what happens now. If they stay in caucus, will THEY have the confidence of the rest of the team? I know I would be questioning it. So far Jody and Jane are being celebrated and congratulated for making a stand on their personal principles, but what if the tide changes? What if suddenly they are seen as women troublemakers who can't stand the heat of the big game? What is the impact on women in politics generally? Does this change your desire to be an engaged participant in the future?
For those women considering a run or being more engaged, I wonder how this makes you feel. This government has been the most progressive ever on issues like gender equity. If there was ever a government that was progressive on issues like gender equality, immigration, the environment, our indigenous people, it was this one. Is it their intention to bring it down? Do they have a thought about what that might look like if this government is not re-elected?
While it is clear I don't have any answers, I do have concerns. What happens next? What were they thinking when they resigned from their posts? Did they consider they were quite possibly putting the jobs of their fellow colleagues on the line? Will it be worth it in the long run?
There are still things we will hear about in the media, although even that is not very reliable at times. Everyone has a spin on how it is presented. It is up to us to choose how we feel about the outcome, and certainly our active participation in the upcoming election will demonstrate how we feel. I am looking forward to our meeting in May where we are gathering as women interested in politics. I expect there will be some good discussion about how you cope in an elected position where you answer not only to yourself, but your community and your party. How do you reconcile yourself in challenging times. It is not enough to be elected - you choose to run because you care passionately about your community or a particular issue/mandate. Every elected official will face some challenging times. Being prepared to cope with it is important, understanding that sometimes you might not agree and how do you manage that.
I hope you are all still interested and engaged in politics. Not just the type of engagement that happens behind the comfort of a keyboard, but the type where you ask good questions and employ critical thinking. Be ENGAGED.
#beher
#supporther
#celebrateher
Here is an upcoming opportunity - APPLICATION DEADLINE MARCH 10th
A Remarkable Assembly - Women's Forum 2019
Please Note: Application deadline now extended to March 10th, 2019!
Do you have an interest in civics and current affairs? Are you actively involved in your community? Do you have aspirations to seek public office or want to know what it's like to be a political representative? The Legislative Assembly of Ontario’s Women’s Forum will bring together 124 young women from across Ontario for a full-day program in Toronto to promote active citizenship and public engagement though education and empowerment.
One woman between the ages of 20-35 will be selected from each provincial riding to represent their community and experience parliament in action, meet prominent Ontario women and key parliamentary figures, and gain a behind-the-scenes perspective of Ontario’s Parliament.
Program date: April 15th, 2019
