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Have a Seat


Engaging women in Muskoka politics.

In the lead up to the 2022

municipal elections in Muskoka,

YWCA Muskoka looked for ways to further support potential women and gender-diverse candidates. 

Engaging Women in Muskoka Politics

In 2022, Muskoka residents had the opportunity to participate in a series of women-centred online workshops aimed at engaging more women in municipal politics. 


Why do we need more women in politics?

Town and District Councillors make important decisions that impact our everyday lives. We know that change can happen at a grassroots level, however greater change happens at a policy level.


Women offer valuable and unique perspectives, because we often experience daily life differently than men. Data shows that women are disproportionately affected by so many factors including gender-based violence, research in health care, childcare and access to employment and pay equity. It’s vital that we are represented equally and that our input is heard and valued.


Have a Seat Workshops

We heard from women who ran for/currently sit on Town and District Councils. They spoke about their experience running a campaign; what the job entails and much more. Panelists included: Kemi Akapo from Peterborough; Nancy Alcock from Huntsville; Susan Mazan from Muskoka Lakes; Audrey Van Petegem from Gravenhurst and Penny Varney from Gravenhurst.


We also heard from Body Language Coach, Jennifer Grigg who gave tips about presenting with confidence and how to communicate clearly and effectively.

What's Next?

YWCA Muskoka will continue to advocate for intersectional issues and the voices of women,

BIPOC and gender diverse people to be heard.


ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Equal Voice - a multi-partisan organization dedicated to electing and supporting women at all levels of political office.

How do I run to be a councillor or a mayor in Muskoka?

Why don't we have more women in Muskoka's municipal council seats?

Planning to change the gender imbalance in Muskoka politics 

This initiative was supported by The District of Muskoka and funded by Women and Gender Equality Canada in partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. 

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