For the first time in Yukon’s history, the number of women elected to the territory’s Legislative Assembly has surpassed that of men. In the recent election, Elections Yukon reported that 11 women and one non-binary MLA were elected, comprising 57% of the legislature. Lindsay Brumwell, acting executive director of Equal Voice, a charity focused on enhancing gender representation in Canadian politics, expressed delight at the outcome, calling it a remarkable achievement for Yukon and a leading example for Canada.
Brumwell noted that this milestone underscores the value northern communities place on selecting local leaders based on merit rather than gender. She highlighted similar progress in other regions, such as British Columbia and the Northwest Territories, where women achieved significant representation in recent elections.
During the campaign, a notable increase in female candidates was observed, with 27 women and one gender-diverse individual contesting electoral districts, representing 46% of the total candidates. Brumwell emphasized that having more women in office can lead to the development of stronger policies that cater to diverse perspectives.
Re-elected Yukon Party MLA Yvonne Clarke, now representing Whistle Bend North, expressed pride in being part of the territory’s first female-majority legislature. She emphasized the importance of advancing gender equality and called for increased funding for NGOs under the Yukon Women’s Coalition to support various initiatives benefiting women’s health and addressing issues like poverty and violence against women.
Linda Moen, newly elected NDP MLA for Mountainview, also stressed the need for enhanced funding for advocacy groups supporting women’s rights and safety. Both Clarke and Moen highlighted the significance of community support in their campaigns and expressed their commitment to promoting inclusivity and empowerment.
Despite the progress made, Brumwell noted that women still face barriers in considering themselves qualified for elected positions, requiring continuous support and encouragement from leaders and communities. She credited the Yukon election results to the collective efforts of individuals championing women’s participation in politics.
Clarke urged leaders to actively engage and encourage potential female candidates, emphasizing the importance of representation and diversity in decision-making roles. Moen highlighted the symbolic significance of Indigenous women holding leadership positions, emphasizing their historical role as community pillars and expressing hope that their success inspires future generations.
The recent election outcomes in Yukon not only mark a significant shift towards gender equality in politics but also serve as a beacon of hope for marginalized groups seeking representation and empowerment in public office.