Statement from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre on Persons Day
Ottawa, ON – The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Persons Day:
“In the early 20th century, women fought for and achieved incredible social advancements, from obtaining the right to vote to winning seats in both provincial legislatures and the House of Commons.
“This extended to the world of law, with Emily Murphy being appointed the first female magistrate in the British Empire. After an Albertan Senate seat became open in 1922, allies from the province and across Canada petitioned the government to appoint Murphy as our first female Senator.
“Mackenzie King’s government stalled, claiming the constitutional requirement of being a ‘qualified person’ prevented him from choosing a woman. Instead of an appointment, he offered an amendment that for four years went nowhere.
“Tired of the punting and delays, the ‘Famous Five’ – Murphy, along with Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Henrietta Muir Edwards – brought King’s interpretation before Canada’s highest court of appeal.
“Finally, on October 18th, 1929, they emerged victorious with the first female Senator being appointed nine months later. Despite winning their case, none of the Famous Five would be appointed before they passed away.
“While they would never have the opportunity to sit in the Senate, today their statues stand watch over all those who enter; a reminder of those who secured greater representation and opportunity for women in our government and public life.”