MP HOPING TO INSPIRE
Rachael Harder knows the challenges women face
Women face particular challenges and barriers when entering the political realm, says Lethbridge MP Rachael Harder, but by working together can overcome them.
”I think having more women in politics would be beneficial, because we bring a unique perspective to the table and it is a perspective which is very much needed in our country at those (higher) levels of decision making,” says Harder. “In terms of women entering the political realm, it can be intimidating to enter, for sure. Some of things I hear from women who are considering running, when they talk to me, they wonder how they will balance family and political life. That can be a challenge.
“Another concern I hear from women is when they ask the question: Will I be able to garner enough support? Part of what they are asking there is: Will I be able to get the mass behind me that is required to win? But another part to that question is: Will my male colleagues support me running for this position?”
Harder says women stepping up and seeking public office usually have to overcome many social barriers, but those barriers are magnified if you can’t overcome your own insecurities and fears.
“There comes a point of decision where you have weighed out all the pros and cons of running, and you have counted the cost,” says Harder, speaking from personal experience. “And then you have to make a decision— are you going to say yes or say no? After weighing those things, I made the decision to step up and say yes. But it didn’t stop there; it isn’t one yes— it’s a thousand yeses and pushing through the barriers, hurdles and obstacles that would hold you back.”
Harder calls herself a feminist, but does not subscribe to the Justin Trudeau-preferred definition of what that means.
“Trudeau would say it is up to him to dictate to a woman what her values should be ... My idea of feminism is every woman should have the freedom choose what her values are, and where she wants to place her time, her money, her talent, her resources— and that choice should be respected by the government.”
Harder hopes to share more of her personal experiences of being a woman in politics at the June 9 “Equal Voice presents Rachael Harder” event at the The Port Coworking Space located at 105 8th Street South in Lethbridge starting at 10 a.m.
Harder is looking forward to the event, and hopes to inspire more women to consider getting involved in politics.
“This is an opportunity for women in the region to come together, learn about the political realm, hear a bit of my story, and what it has been like for me as a young woman to enter the political realm,” she says. “If I can play a small part in helping women in this area get excited about the possibility of running, or being involved in the political arena, that would be such an honour for me to play that role.”
Those wishing to attend can RSVP at albertasouth@equalvoice.ca by May. 26.
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