Balanced Political Representation Sought by Women
THUNDER BAY – Women represent fifty-one per cent of the population. Women in Politics is setting a goal to have fifty one per cent of elected positions in Northwestern Ontario represented by women. The women all leaders in the communities of Thunder Bay, Nipigon, and Shuniah have come together to plan and work together.
The Women in Politics Forum aims to foster the political talent and public leadership goals of northern women. The event will feature keynote speaker Lyn McLeod, who served in elected political office both locally and provincially for 33 years. McLeod was the first woman elected as leader of the Ontario Liberal Party in 1992. McLeod states, “Women are providing outstanding leadership as Premiers across this country. We need to see more of that leadership by women on municipal councils, in legislatures and in parliament”.
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Findings from a 2012 survey conducted by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, indicates that women account for more than half of Canada’s population, but make up only 21 percent of municipal councils. Serving her third term as Councillor at Large for the City of Thunder Bay, Rebecca Johnson is a lead for the Women in Politics initiative and wants to see more women in politics.
Johnson comments, “At a municipal level, politics is still dominated by men. Elected officials are making important decisions and there is a need for women to be at the table. We need to shake things up. Women are capable of being leaders and bring a unique perspective and expertise forward.”
In its history, the City of Thunder Bay has elected two women as Mayor; Dusty Miller (1978- 1980), and Lynn Peterson (2003-2010). Currently women fill two of thirteen council seats. Women have identified many barriers as to why they choose not to get involved in politics. Finding work- life balance and a lack of support and resources tops that list.
Findings from a 2012 survey conducted by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, indicates that women account for more than half of Canada’s population, but make up only 21 percent of municipal councils. Serving her third term as Councillor at Large for the City of Thunder Bay, Rebecca Johnson is a lead for the Women in Politics initiative and wants to see more women in politics.
Johnson stated, “At a municipal level, politics is still dominated by men. Elected officials are making important decisions and there is a need for women to be at the table. We need to shake things up. Women are capable of being leaders and bring a unique perspective and expertise forward.”
In its history, the City of Thunder Bay has elected two women as Mayor; Dusty Miller (1978- 1980), and Lynn Peterson (2003-2010). Currently women fill two of thirteen council seats. Women have identified many barriers as to why they choose not to get involved in politics. Finding work- life balance and a lack of support and resources tops that list.
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