Agnes Macphail
In 1921 voters in southern Ontario elected the first female Member of
Parliament. Agnes Macphail, a 31-year-old teacher, focused her work on farm and
labour issues. During her tenure, she fought against stereotypes and ridicule in
order to do her job. Macphail fought hard for women’s rights. She also advocated
for better jails. At this time prisoners lived in terrible conditions. She served in
federal and provincial governments for more than 30 years. She blazed a path for
other women in politics.
Agnes Macphail
“I think women just want to be individuals,
no more and no less.” (Agnes Macphail, 1922)
Find a related web link at
canada150.beechstreetbooks.ca
.
27
