Executive Council
April 13, 2015

Celebrating the Achievements of Women

Provincial Government Marks 90th Anniversary of Women’s Right to Vote

The Provincial Government is recognizing the tremendous work of women who gained the right to vote and hold public office in Newfoundland and Labrador 90 years ago today.

“On April 13, 1925, after decades of campaigning, women suffragists in Newfoundland and Labrador were successful in achieving their goals. I encourage all women to draw on the inspiration of those who fought tirelessly for their right to vote and to serve as elected representatives of the people.”
- The Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women

In response to the organized efforts of the Women’s Franchise League in 1925, Prime Minister Walter S. Monroe introduced a franchise bill which was passed into law on April 13 of that year. In October 1928, more than 52,000 women voted for the first time in a Newfoundland and Labrador general election.

“Diverse perspectives are essential to the effectiveness of democracy, and today, women’s views continue to inform the decisions of governments at all levels in our province. The contributions of women are invaluable in all areas of policy development and implementation.”
- Minister Sullivan

Resources for women who are interested in running for elected office are available at www.exec.gov.nl.ca/exec/wpo/.

More information about women’s suffrage in Newfoundland and Labrador can be found at www.heritage.nf.ca/law/suffrage.html.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government is recognizing the 90th anniversary of women gaining the right to vote and hold public office in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Women’s perspectives help inform the decisions made at all levels of government.
• Resources for women who are interested in running for elected office are available at www.exec.gov.nl.ca/exec/wpo/.
• More information about the women’s suffrage movement in Newfoundland and Labrador can be found at www.heritage.nf.ca/law/suffrage.html.

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Media contact:

Gina MacArthur Program, Policy and Communications Analyst Women’s Policy Office 709-729-6225, 709-730-2977 ginamacarthur@gov.nl.ca

2015 04 13                              11:25 a.m.