On this day in 1925, women in Newfoundland and Labrador gained the right to vote and hold public office for the first time. This was made possible after years of campaigning by suffragists, who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard and their votes count.

Nearly a century later, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador acknowledges progress while continuing to support efforts to advance gender equality and promote equitable democratic participation and representation.

This past fall, the Office of Women and Gender Equality provided $30,000 in funding to Equal Voice NL to coordinate the Future of the Vote event. Through the Department of Municipal and Provincial Affairs, the Provincial Government also provided $10,000 to support a partnership with Equal Voice NL and Municipalities Newfoundland and Labrador to showcase inclusion and diversity in municipal governments in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Most recently, the Office of Women and Gender Equality provided $40,000 to PerSIStence Theatre Company to raise the first named statue of a woman in St. John’s. This statue will be of Armine Nutting Gosling, who was a leader in the suffrage movement and a dedicated social justice advocate.

The Provincial Government will continue to action initiatives to encourage, promote, support, and retain women in leadership roles while making progress towards true gender equality in this province.

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“Less than 100 years ago, women did not have the right to vote. Today, women are leading various sectors and industries throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, and the number of women and gender diverse people holding public office continues to grow. It is humbling to reflect on the progress made since 1925, and a reminder of the important work that remains ahead of us.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality

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Learn more
Minister Pam Parsons Announces Funding for Future of the Vote to Inspire Political Participation in Newfoundland and Labrador

Minister Howell Provides Financial Support for Inclusion and Diversity Work in Municipal Government

Provincial Government Provides Funding Support to Raise First Statue of a Historical Woman in St. John’s

Office of Women and Gender Equality

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Media contact
Angela Picco
Office of Women and Gender Equality
709-729-4934, 709-687-4753
angelapicco@gov.nl.ca