So…have you seen the new Cabinet appointed in Canada? Like, really had a good look?
Because it’s not just the fact that it’s composed of 15 women out of 30 appointments that’s awesome. Diversity comes in many, many forms and I’m not just talking about the representation of ability and visible & invisible minorities. I’m talking about their collective experience and backgrounds.
Now, I’ve never really leaned politically hard in any direction but I’ve definitely always been left of centre. When the Liberals won I was A) relieved that Harper and his cronies were out and B) curious to see what Trudeau will contribute.
I’m not a supporter of Trudeau in that I was pretty indifferent to who would take it between the NDP (I was a huge supporter of the NDP when the late, great and much missed Jack Layton was at the helm) and the Liberals. Both parties have pretty balanced platforms of stuff I totally agree with, stuff I need more information about and stuff that I disagree with.
I am a supporter of Trudeau in that he doesn’t do that obnoxious political talk that doesn’t actually say anything definitive. You know what I mean, that stuff that’s like: I have a values, just like you, the people have values. And I value your values because I was raised by a woman who taught me the importance of values.
Blah, blah, blah.
When Trudeau said this about his stance on abortion I was impressed:
He didn’t talk around it in a noncommittal way. He has been very up front: Women have the right to choose what happens to their body. End of. No quibble. No waffle. No conditions.
I appreciate such honesty in anyone. It’s refreshing in a political leader.
I have no idea what to expect in the coming months as the new Cabinet settles in and Trudeau adjusts to his new home of 24 Sussex Drive.
I do know, for the first time in my life, when I look at the people running the country, I see myself represented. I see my friends and family represented. I see real people with diverse backgrounds, differing educational experiences and different geographical upbringings.
As Trudeau has rightly said, when I look at this group of faces, I see Canadians.
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Originally published on medium