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Decentralized Democracy

House Hansard - 11

44th Parl. 1st Sess.
December 6, 2021 11:00AM
Context: House Hansard - 11 - Dec/6/21
Mr. Alex Ruff (Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, CPC)
  • Dec/6/21 2:06:51 p.m.
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Mr. Speaker, it was 100 years ago today that the first woman, Agnes Macphail, was elected here to the House of Commons. Born in Grey County, Agnes was first elected to represent the riding of Grey South East and later represented the riding of Grey—Bruce. She worked hard to represent farmers and rural interests here in Ottawa. She knew what mattered to rural communities and was instrumental in the establishment of old age pensions and the reform of our Canadian prison system. Agnes's achievements did not end with being elected to the Canadian Parliament. She was the first woman to represent Canada at the League of Nations and was the one of the first two to be elected to the Ontario legislature in 1943. Today, her legacy and work continue with organizations like electHER Now that aim to increase women's representation in municipal politics across my riding of Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound by connecting aspiring women with some of the great role models in the riding. I hope all members will join me today in recognizing the historic and inspiring contribution Agnes made to Canada and here in the House of Commons.
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