In a world where representation is more important than ever before, two Dalhousie students shining a spotlight on women in politics are looking to make an impact on women studying at Dalhousie as well.
Grace Evans, a third-year Political Science student, and Sarah Dobson, now in her third year of the Juris Doctor program at the Schulich School of Law, are authors of a forthcoming book telling stories of the 50 women to have served as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) in Nova Scotia.
The book, On Their Shoulders: The Women Who Paved the Way in Nova Scotia Politics, has been in the works for the past year, and will detail these women’s journeys to office, the inequalities they overcame, memorable moments and achievements, and advice they would give to today’s young women working towards a career in politics.
“The book will help to fill an important gap in our political history,” says Grace. “It will also help inspire today’s young women to follow in their footsteps.”
Read also: Representation matters: Dal students working on book about Nova Scotia’s 50 female MLAs (Dec. 13)
In addition to the book, Grace and Sarah have kickstarted a new scholarship fund campaign at Dal with a goal of raising $20,000. “The Women in Politics Scholarship will be a great way to recognize and encourage young women pursuing studies in Political Science at Dal,” says Sarah.
The students hope to raise $10,000 from book sales, which they will donate entirely to the scholarship fund. To help make up the difference, they have launched a fundraising campaign on Dalhousie’s crowdfunding platform, projectDAL. The pair have already raised $3,000 in the first days of the campaign (as of press time) and are now looking for support from the Dal community.
“Inclusivity is a key priority here at Dal,” says Grace. “We hope our project will show female students that they can one day be elected to office and make a difference, helping to fill the gender gap in politics.”
On Their Shoulders: The Women Who Paved the Way in Nova Scotia Politics will be available in local bookstores and online this spring. For more information or to make your donation to the Women in Politics Scholarship Fund, please visit projectdal.ca/womeninpolitics
Video: Watch a clip of Grace and Sarah from Global Morning this week