100 Women for 100 Years

Written by: Kassandra Drodge, BA , MA

Yesterday I attended the 100 women for 100 years of women’s right to vote in Newfoundland and Labrador. It was captivating and inspiring to listen to Yvonne Jones, Kathy Dunderdale, Margot Duley, and Sheilagh O’leary. An event hosted by Breakwater Books, Memorial University Press, and Equal Voice NL.

Their stories sparked so many emotions and relatable feelings, and stood out as a true reminder of the power behind women and gender diverse peoples’ experiences and advocacy. Knowing that Newfoundland and Labrador once had women leading just about every political party is truly inspiring and something I hope to see again soon. 

Each story highlighted the importance of women and gender diverse advocacy, and how that plays a role in politics. It is undeniable, as Yvonne Jones, noted, that we are oftentimes put in a corner (quite literally) and expected to sizzle out, but we never truly sizzle out– we ignite. In politics, womxn use political advocacy to critically look at the relationships between power and people and societies are better off with majority womxn led governments. 

Now more than ever, it is crucial for womxn to continue breaking through patriarchal barriers, stepping into spaces that once excluded us, and unapologetically claiming our place. We do this through art, conversations, and connections, Sheilagh eloquently notes— We are more than just this or that– we are everything!

As a final thought, and something that lingers with me, Kathy powerfully noted, she often heard the phrase "not knowing my place" throughout her political career. Rather than seeing it as a critique, she reclaimed it to take up space, challenge the status quo, and redefine what leadership looks like.

I urge all women and gender-diverse people to defy expectations, challenge social, economic, and environmental uncertainties, and demand a better world. To those who share this vision—stand in support!