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When asked why he chose equal numbers of men and women to
form his cabinet, PM Justin Trudeau said, “Because it’s 2015.”
Boom. Pretty much the equivalent of dropping the mic.
Not all Canadians appreciate this. But I can’t fathom why.
If it’s because of sexism, whether willful or through pure ignorance, that’s
total bunk. Anyone who has a mother should be ashamed of themselves for that
sort of patriarchal nonsense. Personally, I think this decision is a moot
point. It doesn’t matter where anyone is on the political spectrum, there is no
point debating this. Any debate speaks to bias and sexism because any Canadian
citizen age 18 or over, male or female, of a particular race or religion, immigrant
or indigenous, ALL PERSONS, have the right to run for elected office. Ever hear
of the “Famous Five”? Or the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? Since 1960.
(Go ahead and google it; the history of this is dreadful.) So 55 years later,
why is this even a thing?
For those who contend that he chose gender over
qualifications or experience like some political publicity stunt, I doubt that,
because puh-lease, do people really think there aren't 15 women capable of these leadership roles? Even if some lack experience, it doesn’t mean he chose the wrong people. For eons
we’ve had qualified/unqualified, experienced/inexperienced, predominantly male politicians who’ve
misrepresented their constituents and our country in numerous and appalling ways.
See the Senate for several recent examples. And no, of course, not all are
corrupted by power, but definitely a few too many. Anyone, regardless of gender
can be nominated, be elected, and be really shitty at their jobs. We Canadians
have that right too.
Justin Trudeau could also have answered that question this
way: “Because it’s my choice.” It was and it is because Canadians elected him.
That’s democracy and despite its misgivings, when I look around the world, I
don’t see government better than democracy. So considering it’s November, let’s
pause for a moment of silence and reflect on why we have a democracy. And let’s
remember how fortunate we are to live where we live.
5 comments:
Trudeau won me over with that remark and his choice of diversity. These people he chose are clearly qualified. He couldn't risk the political fallout on a stunt. I think for once, people are confused that someone would actively look for a diverse cabinet instead of settling for cronyism. Besides, maybe he has looked at the myriad of studies that show a diversity of backgrounds and perspectives in the workplace lead to greater innovation and success?
http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-diversity-makes-us-smarter/
People the world over need to realize that it is 2015 & it's time to stop judging people by their race & gender and start forming opinions on others based on what really matters: Whether or not they use the word "bae" to refer to their significant other.
I agree with every word, dbs. People need to get over their tired old prejudices and assumptions.
Great response, but another one would have been,
"Oh, they're equal? Hadn't noticed."
All of the sudden everyone is concerned with qualifications. It was never such an issue before? Nobody asked if the all men cabinets were qualified for their jobs.
I've read every bio of the cabinet members and all are very impressive role models.
Also, Krystia Freeland? She is badass AND born in Peace River. Same hospital as me. I'm thinking of seeing if she wants to drink beer with me in the near future, seeing as I'm a fan and we are both implants from the same place. I'll let you know how it goes.
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