Nancy Peckford

Executive Director, Equal Voice

"Equal Voice is about change. Changing the face of Parliament, the composition of our legislatures and municipal councils, so that the incredibly diverse voices of women are well-represented at every committee meeting, debate, Cabinet discussion and vote. We should expect no less of our democracy or ourselves."

url: http://www.equalvoice.ca

Michal Harewood

Former National Youth Chair, Equal Voice

"Young women are our future and engaging them now is key to ensuring a balanced and vibrant democracy going forward."

Sheila Gervais

Former National Director, Liberal Party of Canada

"Women in positions of political leadership make a huge difference in how campaigns are run – and won – and improve the chances of having legislation adopted once elected because of their collaborative approach to decision-making."

Claire Detheridge

Councillor of 31 yrs, Cape Breton Regional Municipality

"Women have a perspective that needs to expressed. We are an equal to our male counterparts; remember votes for women translate to stronger voices for women. "

Rosemarie Leclair

Chair & CEO, Ontario Energy Board

"Research shows that there is a direct correlation between a corporation's performance and the number of women in the boardroom and C-suite.  Why wouldn't we want to see those same results in politics and government? By supporting Equal Voice's membership campaign, one day we will."

Sarah Onyango

Civic Engagement Advocate

"If we - as women - want to 'be the change' we want to see in our communities and country, we must drive that change by making sure we help get more women - from diverse backgrounds - to the decision-making table at all levels of government. Gender balance in our legislatures and on our city councils is key to the very legitimacy of our democracy. I want to be a part of the change by being an EV Champion. I invite you to join this powerful movement!"

Eugene Haslam

Owner, Zaphod Beeblebrox

"I am pleased to be an Equal Voice Champion; to encourage, empower and support women for full and proactive leadership and decision-making in all levels and facets of Canadian life."

url: http://www.zaphodbeeblebrox.com

Dr. Zul Merali

President & CEO, University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research

"I am proud to be an Equal Voice Champion because of the strong role women have played in shaping who I am. Women need to bring their voice to the governance of our country. "

Councillor Jane Twinney

Ward 3, Newmarket, Ontario

"Back in 2010, I had submitted my name to run for municipal office and I won, beating out an incumbent. This was after losing to this particular man in 2006. I didn’t give up and I want to encourage other women not to give up. I encourage women in my community to think about running for office at every opportunity. It has been a wonderful experience and I hope I see more women taking the plunge."