Women interested in municipal politics had the chance to learn about running election campaigns at a free workshop in the Town of Three Rivers.
The Federation of PEI Municipalities has partnered with the PEI Coalition for Women in Government to offer a series of Municipal Campaign Schools for women. The schools included a session on Saturday, August 20, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Kings Playhouse in Georgetown.
“The Federation of PEI Municipalities has always been a strong supporter of women in politics, and we thank the PEI Coalition for Women in Government for hosting this event,” said Bruce MacDougall, President of the Federation. “I look forward to seeing a strong showing of women seeking political office in the upcoming municipal elections.”
General municipal elections will be held across the province on Monday, November 7. The Municipal Campaign School covers a range of topics including how to prepare a candidacy, create a platform, build a campaign team, finance a campaign, fundraise, and communicate effectively.
Debbie Johnston, Deputy Mayor of Three Rivers and board member with the Federation of PEI Municipalities, described her own municipal involvement as rewarding and said more women are needed in municipal politics. She said she hopes women take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the process and how they can contribute.
“Women bring a great perspective to the table,” Johnston said. “I encourage women to participate in the Campaign School and put their name forward for municipal election.”
Mileage reimbursement, childcare reimbursement, and on-site childcare are available for any woman requiring assistance to attend a Campaign School. The next Campaign School takes place Saturday, September 10, in Summerside. For more information, email peiwomeningovernment@gmail.com.
The Municipal Campaign Schools are facilitated by the PEI Coalition for Women in Government in partnership with the Federation of PEI Municipalities thanks to funding by Women and Gender Equality Canada in partnership with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.