Sexist Language Has No Place

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Sexist Language Has No Place

Commentary By Norma Dubé and Robyn Tingley

We are members of Women for 50% and we have been very disturbed by the sexist language used in recent weeks in the Legislature.  We consider the sexist remarks made by male MLAs to their female counterparts to be completely inappropriate and unacceptable in a society where women and men are equal and deserve equal respect.  Civil and respectful exchanges should be a fundamental expectation that we all have as citizens of this Province — especially from our politicians!  Elected officials must hold themselves to the highest standards of governance, leadership, and professionalism.  When ugly, sexist language rears its head, men and women need to speak out!

We are committed to support more women entering politics and having 50% of candidates in the 2018 provincial election be women.  The recent debates in the Legislature are but one indicator of a political culture that must change if we hope to attract more women into politics.

A culture change requires dialogue, education and action.

First, all parties must adopt a zero tolerance policy with respect to sexist behaviours and language. We encourage and applaud Party Leaders who adopt this position with their entire membership.

Second, education must happen more frequently and thoroughly for MLAs. There are a number of experts in this Province who could assist political parties in educating their members in terms of gender sensitivity.  We would strongly encourage them to avail themselves of these resources now, and we offer the assistance of the Women for 50% Initiative in making this happen.

This is not the first time in the history of our Legislative Assembly that this unfortunate and sad debate has surfaced.  If there is a silver lining this time, it is that we are having a public discussion.  It is time to commit to make a change!

 

Robyn Tingley and Norma Dubé

Members of Women for 50%