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Celebrating International Women's Day: Honoring Alexa McDonough's Legacy
3-08-2024
On this International Women's Day, we pause to celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped our world, both past and present. It is a day of gratitude for their tireless efforts in creating a more equitable and just society where all voices are valued.
In tribute to the remarkable women who have shaped our society for the better, the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation proudly celebrates trailblazers like Alexa McDonough and all the extraordinary women who, through their courage and determination, have left an indelible mark on our nation's history. Their legacy inspires us to continue the journey toward a more just and equitable Canada for all. Through their tireless efforts, these incredible women have paved the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Canada.
Among these trailblazers is the indomitable Alexa McDonough. We often hear stories of her from constituents during her time with the NDP - tales of her open hand extended in encouragement, her kindness, optimism, and unwavering principles. Alexa McDonough never shied away from a challenge; instead, she faced them head-on, proving skeptics wrong time and again.
Her journey was one of diverse roles: activist, social worker, teacher, reporter, and politician, among others. But her path was far from easy. Initial setbacks in Halifax's elections in 1979 and 1980 did not deter her spirit. When the Nova Scotia NDP needed new leadership and Alexa lacked a seat, she entered the leadership race and secured a resounding victory.
Becoming the sole woman in the House of Assembly, she set about dismantling the "old boys club" and strengthening the caucus. After 14 impactful years as the NS NDP leader, she aimed for a new challenge: federal leadership. Her historic win marked her as the first woman to lead a major political party in Canada. Under her leadership, the party secured 21 seats, signaling a resurgence.
Throughout her career, Alexa McDonough fought passionately for health and safety improvements, human rights protections, pay equity, women's bodily autonomy, and increased international aid. Her achievements were a testament to her perseverance and the support network around her. Yet, despite progress, women in Canada still occupy only 30% of leadership positions, whether in the House of Commons or in businesses.
This reality underscores the importance of uplifting and empowering women. We must provide them with the tools and encouragement to become the resilient and visionary leaders of today's challenges. This is why Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation established the Alexa McDonough Women's Leadership Centre - a living repository honoring the stories of triumph and success of women who have fought tirelessly for justice and social democracy.
Last year, the Foundation launched the Women's Leadership Showcase, featuring interviews and events with leading social democratic women such as Audrey McLaughlin, Marit Stiles, Peggy Nash, and Rachel Notley. This series aims to inspire more women to engage in their communities and step into leadership roles.
Alexa McDonough was deeply rooted in her community as a social worker, teacher, and politician. She connected with people on the ground, and that's where we must be to reach more women. We invite you to join us in this mission.
As we commemorate International Women's Day and honor Alexa McDonough's legacy, we invite you to contribute to her enduring impact. Your support will enable us to expand our reach and inspire more women across Canada to embrace leadership and social change. Our fight for a more equitable world includes people of all genders.
Together, let us continue building a future where all voices are heard, and where women stand at the forefront of progress. Join us in honoring the legacy of Alexa McDonough and empowering the leaders of tomorrow.
For more information about the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation, please visit Foundation Website.
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