We need more women in government decision-making. Women's place in public decision-making is vital for two reasons. First, many policy decisions affect women differently than men. Their perspectives may not always be included in that decision-making. Second, women's talents are needed: Women offer much in every sphere of life, including government.

Women must be able to offer their views on public decision-making in several ways:

as elected officials
as citizens: by voting and working for political parties, contacting their elected representatives and contributing to public consultations
as public employees

Women have been fulfilling some of these roles for many years. Now they must begin to move into new areas and into leadership roles.

The Advisory Council has supported women's involvement in public life through our non-partisan campaign schools for women and similar projects. During 2008, the Council is partnering with the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities and the Women in Local Government Project in four Campaign Schools, in preparation of the October 18, 2008 municipal election. We hope this part of our website will show women how important it is to get involved in political decision-making.

For a current list of women MLA's, past and present, click here.