Executive Council
February 23, 2017

Promoting Women in Politics

Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly Hosts Daughters of the Vote

Young women from across the province are getting a taste of political life today, as the House of Assembly hosts the provincial Daughters of the Vote event.

“We are so pleased to be hosting such an important event in our provincial legislature today. These young women represent the future of women in politics for our province – and our country. Decisions they make about their career choices will make a positive impact to many senior management tables, public policy choices, and the economic growth of our communities.”
- The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

Daughters of the Vote was created by Equal Voice so that young women – one from every federal riding in Canada – can represent their community in Parliament. Due to overwhelming interest shown provincially for the national event – 103 applicants for seven seats, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador partnered with Equal Voice NL, the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women, Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians and the YWCA to organize a local event.

“It was very encouraging to see such enthusiasm for the national Daughters of the Vote event. We wanted to give these emerging young women leaders, who couldn’t participate in the national event, an opportunity to get a first-hand look at political life so they are equipped and inspired to participate in the political sphere in years to come. Encouraging more young women to consider a career in public office and discussing with them how to overcome some of the barriers that exist is a very important step to achieving a greater gender balance of our elected officials.”
- The Honourable Cathy Bennett, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women

Participants will get to meet and hear presentations from female elected officials, receive a tour of the House of Assembly, learn about the legislation process, participate in a mock debate, and hear from other organizations on topics such as women’s leadership and women in public office.

“As the provincial representative for the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, I am so pleased that our young women are showing such a keen interest in the political system. It is our hope, that through our event today, the participants will take away an experience that will inspire them to strongly consider a career in public office and increase female representation at decision making tables across our province.”
- Lisa Dempster, MHA for Cartwright L'Anse au Clair and Deputy Speaker of the House of Assembly

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, and all partners involved in Daughters of the Vote are committed to increasing the number of women in leadership roles of all types.

“We are thrilled to bring together this group of bright accomplished young women. We want to nurture their enthusiasm and inspire and strengthen their interest in public office, as they are our future leaders.”
- Linda Ross, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Provincial Advisory Council on the Status of Women, Newfoundland and Labrador

Opportunities like Daughters of the Vote allow future leaders the chance to network with others, build relationships, and foster mentorship roles that will assist them in exploring their paths into boardroom tables, municipal council and legislatures.

“Women throughout this province demonstrate such strong leadership in our communities. The Daughters of the Vote participants can benefit from a first-hand education and mentorship opportunity, gaining the confidence needed to consider stepping up to serve as elected representatives. These young women will gain invaluable knowledge and know that political life is achievable and empowering.”
- Sheilagh O’Leary, Newfoundland and Labrador Co-Chair, Equal Voice

Daughters of the Vote was created in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the formal federal political engagement of women along with Canada’s 150th birthday. For more information about Daughters of the Vote, please visit www.daughtersofthevote.ca.

QUICK FACTS

• Young women from across the province are getting a taste of political life today as the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly plays host to the Daughters of the Vote event.
• Daughters of the Vote was created to help ensure emerging young women leaders become familiar with Canada’s political institutions so they are equipped and inspired to participate in the political sphere in years to come.
• Encouraging more young women to consider a career in public office and discussing with how to overcome some of the barriers that exist is a very important step to achieving a greater gender balance of our elected officials.

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Media contacts:

Michelle Cannizzaro Director of Communications Office of the Premier 709-729-3960 michellecannizzaro@gov.nl.ca	Lisa Lawlor Media Relations Manager Women’s Policy Office 709-729-4839, 730-1568 lisalawlor@gov.nl.ca
Linda Ross President/CEO Provincial Advisory Council for the Status of Women NL 709-753-7270 lindaross@pacsw.ca	Sheilagh O’Leary Co-Chair Equal Voice NL 709-725-5068 soleary@stjohns.ca
Nathan Downey Communications Officer Government Members Office 709-729-3226 nathandowney@gov.nl.ca

2017 02 23                              9:40 a.m.