Ministerial Statement – Minister Parsons Recognizes Historic Number of Women and Gender Diverse Individuals in Provincial General Election

  • Office of Women and Gender Equality

April 21, 2021

The following statement was read today by the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality:

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak today to recognize the historic number of women and gender diverse individuals who put their names forward during the 2021 Provincial General Election.  While we would have liked to have seen more elected than the nine who were successful, having a larger, more diverse group run for office is a positive step toward having a legislature that is representative of the people we serve.

Research tells us that much of the work to ensuring diversity in our candidates rests with political parties. However, we know there are steps governments can take to facilitate diversity.

Our government led the way to amend the Standing Orders of the House of Assembly to allow infants on the floor of this Honourable chamber, we have implemented a legislature-specific harassment-free workplace policy, and we have introduced a Bill to amend the Elections Act, 1991.

As well, the Office of Women and Gender Equality is working with the local chapter of Equal Voice on two exciting projects.  A virtual campaign college will be offered next month, and this fall we will be holding the second Daughters of the Vote for young women and gender diverse individuals.

Mr. Speaker, today I reiterate government’s commitment to diversity in all sectors, and to ensuring inclusion is a foundational characteristic of our province.

Thank you.

2021 04 21 2:32 pm