Stalled: The Representation of Women in Canadian Governments

by Linda Trimble (editor), Jane Arscott (Editor), Manon Tremblay (Editor)

Following significant increases in women’s electoral representation in the 1980s and '90s, progress has stalled. Today, there are only a few more women in Canada’s parliament and legislatures than a decade ago. What has happened to the representational gains for women and why does gender parity remain so elusive? To answer these questions, Stalled provides a detailed road map of women’s political representation as candidates, office-holders, cabinet ministers, party leaders, and as representatives of the Crown at all levels of government across Canada. Comprehensive and accessible, this volume makes clear that women are far from achieving equality in sites of formal political power.

320 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[malaika bunziboo · Rating 4 out of 5]

FIRST BOOK I FINISHED IN ALMOST A MONTH!!! This book is an essential read. It is becoming a bit more dated as the days progress, but remains necessary for its historical perspective. As an Ontarian, I got to learn more about different provinces/territories histories and their political systems. While reading, I learned for the first time about the "Fab Five" (which is sad since I never heard about them in school). I have to be honest, "Stalled" isn't the easiest read. The content of course is stimulating and interesting, but some parts in the book felt redundant and drawn out *cough* the foreword *cough* This opinon must be taken with a grain of salt because I was reading it during a reading slump. :/

Anywho, I'm proud of these women (the authors) for educating me and explaining how Canadians got here, regarding the representation of women in government. As I am writing this review, I am 17, so when I will be eligible to vote next year, I will think more mindfully about which candidate I will elect. Not saying I will vote for female candidate just because of her gender, but I now view our electoral system through a more critical lense. If you are Canadian, I highly suggest that you pick this book up. We live in a democratic and diverse country, thus our legislators should reflect it! :)