To achieve gender parity, Québec solidaire proposes to reserve constituencies for women only during by-elections. Following the political correctness of the moment, we add: and “to non-binary people”. How we will determine this “non-binarity” remains a mystery…
So-called positive discrimination is supposed to encourage women to enter politics. However, real encouragement would consist of offering working conditions conducive to work-family balance: daycare at the workplace, reasonable hours, a more civilized atmosphere both in government bodies and in public spaces. Men would also benefit, as would society as a whole.
This discrimination devalues women’s applications: they may wonder if they are candidates because they are considered competent or because of their gender. Quebec women are mature enough not to need this crutch; they need concrete and constant support to fulfill their often multiple roles. Furthermore, this favoritism granted to women will discourage men: why run for politics since, in any case, they will be rejected because of their sex? More widespread resentment may result.
There is something anachronistic in this emphasis on sex, when, nowadays, one can declare oneself woman, man or other. People entering politics are expected to be honest, competent and hardworking, regardless of their gender. May the best person win!
To watch on video