The Office of Women and Gender Equality is pleased to announce $30,000 in project funding to support Future of the Vote, hosted by Equal Voice NL. Future of the Vote, formerly known as Daughters of the Vote, was recently rebranded to invoke broader participation from women and gender-diverse people.
Future of the Vote provides an opportunity for young women and gender-diverse people – one person representing each provincial district – to represent their community in a mock debate in the House of Assembly. The event focuses on inclusion and diversity and allows future leaders a chance to network with others, build relationships and foster mentorship roles that will assist them in exploring their paths to boardroom tables, municipal councils and legislatures.
The event will be held on Friday, October 21, and will feature programming including workshops and panel discussions. The activities will help participants to gain a practical understanding of government, and to develop key skills for engaging in politics. Delegates will also learn about how to support equity and diversity in leadership.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to undertaking initiatives that encourage, promote, support and retain women and gender-diverse people in leadership roles, including in running for elected office.
Quotes
“Future of the Vote is an opportunity for women and gender-diverse people to gain a better understanding of the political system through experiential learning. The participants are the leaders of today and the change makers of tomorrow, who want to make a positive impact in our province.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“Conversations that raise awareness about inclusion and diversity are essential to creating welcoming environments for women and gender-diverse individuals and to increasing their participation in local governance. The Municipal Conduct Act and the Make Your Mark campaign are other excellent examples of how we can build a municipal sector that is respectful and inclusive, reducing barriers to entering politics and leadership roles.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Municipal and Provincial Affairs
“We have invited 40 women and gender-diverse youth from regions all across Newfoundland and Labrador to fill the House of Assembly on October 21, as Delegates of Future of the Vote. We are humbled and honoured by the stories of leadership, resilience and sense of social responsibility we have heard in getting to know this years’ delegates. These delegates are not just future leaders; they are leaders of today, and we are excited to be part of their journey.”
Courtney Clarke
Co-Chair, Equal Voice NL
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Learn more
Future of the Vote
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Media contacts
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca
Jacquelyn Howard
Municipal and Provincial Affairs
709-729-5539, 689-2624
jacquelynhoward@gov.nl.ca
Courtney Clarke
Equal Voice NL
709-765-7091
nl@equalvoice.ca