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The rising tide of misogyny in politics: A call for change
As the political landscape evolves, the voices of women in politics are increasingly drowned out by a wave of misogyny and harassment. Recent discussions surrounding the experiences of female politicians in Canada reveal a troubling trend: the escalation of threats and aggression, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This alarming shift not only endangers the safety of women in politics but also threatens the very fabric of democracy itself.
Escalating threats and the impact on mental health
Former Liberal MP Pam Damoff has been vocal about the misogyny she faced during her tenure, emphasizing the need for public safety officials to take these threats seriously.
“We’ve seen a shift in how people treat politicians,” she stated, expressing concern that someone might eventually be harmed. The pandemic has exacerbated this issue, with harassment evolving from mere insults to death threats, leaving many women feeling unsafe in their roles.
Damoff’s sentiments are echoed by other female politicians, including former environment minister Catherine McKenna, who faced online vitriol that spilled into real life. The emotional toll of such harassment is profound, affecting mental health and overall well-being. McKenna highlights the role of social media in amplifying hate, calling for accountability from tech companies to mitigate this growing problem.
The importance of representation
Despite the challenges, the representation of women in politics remains crucial. Data from Equal Voice shows that while women make up over half of Canada’s population, they hold less than one-third of federal elected positions.
This disparity is mirrored at the municipal level, where women account for only one in five mayors. The lack of diverse voices in decision-making processes hinders progress and perpetuates systemic issues.
In Ontario’s recent provincial election, only 32.2% of candidates were women, with just 34% of elected officials being female.
Lindsay Brumwell, Interim Executive Director at Equal Voice, notes that surpassing the 30% threshold is vital for accelerating progress. “We’re starting to hit important milestones,” she said, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to elevate women’s representation in politics.
Building a supportive environment for women
To combat the challenges faced by women in politics, mentorship and support systems are essential. Karina Gould, a candidate in the upcoming Liberal leadership race, stresses the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for women to thrive. “My philosophy has always been, you open the door and then you hold it open for the next generation,” she said, highlighting the need for women to uplift one another in their political journeys.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, it is imperative to address the misogyny that permeates the system. By fostering a culture of respect and accountability, we can ensure that women’s voices are not only heard but valued. The future of democracy depends on the active participation of all its members, regardless of gender.
