It’s stating the obvious to say that Canada has changed since 1917. Look at us. In just a century, we’ve already completed so many things. In my opinion, the most influential event that took place during the years of 1917-1922 was women gaining their right to vote.
The campaign for women’s suffrage in Canada began back in 1876 but was not fully achieved until 1919. Near the mid-1800’s, women began to feel excluded from activities that were mainly done by men and wished for equality for not just suffrage but for healthcare, education, and employment as well. During WWI, when the women were serving in the war and taking over the men’s jobs, it was difficult to ignore their proposition. Step-by-step, the right to vote for a Canadian woman over the age of 21 was finally established.
I find this campaign and this fight the women took up as a really admirable thing. As a feminist, I love to see others speak and fight for their rights as a female.
On April 19, 1916, Albertan women were given voting rights. On May 24, 1918, it was stated that “National Women who are British subjects, 21 years of age, and otherwise meet the qualifications entitling a man to vote, are entitled to vote in a Dominion election.” And on January 1, 1919, all women 21 and over were permitted to participate in political life. Almost a decade later, we’ve already had two women represent as our Premier of Alberta. How amazing is it that we went from not being able to vote to actually win an election? What a long way we’ve come since then.
As a girl living in Canada, I am extremely grateful for that. I’m happy to know that I can grow up in a place where I can contribute my voice to the decisions made for my country. I’m well aware the inequality for women still exists now, but if one hundred years ago we could receive the right to participate in political activities (which was considered a pretty big jump back then for women), I’m optimistic and hopeful for what we can accomplish in the next 100 years.
I may not live until Canada’s next 150 years, but I will try my hardest to contribute as much as I can to ensure our next generation of women even more equality. This one’s for Canada (Whoop)! And this one’s for its girls (Whoop)!
