4 minute read
FINDING A HOME IN POLITICS
Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Chairperson, Hon. Catherine Fife, MPP (Ontario)
Finding a home in politics can be tough these days. Most of us seek opportunities to serve because we share a desire to improve our communities. Most would agree that the political arena is not often thought of as a kind or welcoming place. This is why the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association is so unusual and so needed.
In November 2024, I was afforded the opportunity to attend the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, held in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia and represented the CPA Canada Region at the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) Steering Committee. Around the table, I saw women from nine regions who believed in their ability to create positive change. I was both inspired and intimidated. What I learned from my Commonwealth colleagues is that we are all dealing with similar challenges: political engagement, the prevalence of misinformation and a lack of trust in our democratic institutions. At that table, I was surprised that I felt… comfortable. I found community, and a renewed interest and energy in finding solutions. I felt at home. These moments are rare, but for those of us called to serve in politics, we have all shared this thought at some point: Can I make a difference? Can I help? Why not me?
The Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) has always held my interest. I enjoy working with women, especially women who know who they are, who speak out with conviction, even when their voice is shaking, and who understand that when one of us is successful, we all are. And so, I raised my hand and stood for election as the Chair of the CWP. Something had sparked inside me. I thought, “Why not me?”
Standing in this election at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference in Barbados alongside distinguished public servants whom I admire – Hon. Nontembeko Boyce from KwaZulu-Natal in South Africa, Hon. Kate Doust from Western Australia, Hon. Fathimath Sauda from The Maldives – left me truly in awe. My younger self would not have believed it.
When I was elected as the first Canadian to Chair the CWP, it may have been me who was delivering a speech and accepting the honour and responsibility. But I was not alone. I know the strong leaders I stand with will not let me falter or walk this journey alone. This gives me hope and energy. The challenges that I see before us are real and substantial. The need for change on gender-based violence, equal access to education and climate change is critical. There is a genuine sense of urgency. Fortunately, women know we are capable of multi-tasking.
The volatility of this time in history is also significant. In a world that is intent on capitalising on division, we need to shine a light on what connects us, by strengthening our capacity as democracies to lift people up, not step on their rights.
At the same time, the CPA is entering a new stage. Our move from charitable status to international organisation indicates that we have matured, and that we want more for our Members. This new status should also make us more agile. I remain grateful to the staff, who share our passion for making positive changes. They understand the mission, and the need for us to act quickly.
I began this piece by speaking of finding a home in politics. Homes are places that enable us to grow, that challenge us, that we give to, and that give to us in return. Homes shape us. Home is an idea that we take with us wherever we go. This is my vision for the CWP: a home for us. For brave, capable, leaders who stand together. Who transform outrage into new ideas and effective reform. Who share what works so that all may benefit. We will carry the spirit of our collective home into a brighter day. Thank you to those who have already offered your support and guidance. As we walk forward with great ambition in our hearts, let us meet this moment together.
