As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we are proud to recognize the contributions of Councillor Michelle Boileau and Councillor Kristin Murray, leaders for our city and community. This year’s theme for International Women’s Day is “break the bias”. The discussion around women’s equality touches on topics of diversity and inclusion, two concepts that both women exemplify and prioritize.
The importance of Councillor Boileau and Councillor Murray’s positions on council cannot be understated. Typically, women are underrepresented in political leadership roles, but their voice and participation are necessary to ensure effective government that better represents our community.
“It is no secret that all around the world, women and girls live different realities than our male counterparts,” says Councillor Boileau. “These differences must be considered when decisions are being made that impact the lives of others. The voices of mothers and daughters, of our aunts and grandmothers, deserve to be represented at those tables. And we deserve to be the ones representing them. I know I am fortunate to live in a place where I can make better the community in which my daughter will grow up. It is not always easy, but neither are most things women accomplish every day. International Women’s Day is a perfect day to encourage one of the accomplished women in your life to engage in decision-making at any level.”
In addition to serving as members of council, both women lead by example as volunteers on the Timmins Police Service Board. Councillor Boileau serves as the chair of the Francophone Liaison Committee and, as such, is instrumental in ensuring francophone representation throughout the city. Councillor Murray is the acting Chair of the City’s Indigenous Advisory Committee and has advocated for the inclusion of Indigenous tradition at City events. Her work on the Timmins’ Youth Mural Project changed the visual landscape of Timmins.
“When I decided to run for City Council, I knew that I had the strength of the many influential women in my life as my driving force in working towards the betterment of our community,” says Councillor Murray.
“We are fortunate to benefit from the experience and knowledge that both Councillor Boileau and Councillor Murray bring to City Council,” says Mayor George Pirie. “Both women are committed to the well-being of our community, particularly when it comes to promoting multiculturalism and inclusion. This is evident in the projects they have initiated and encouraged.”
Both Councillors also serve as an example for young women in our community as skilled professionals, daughters, mothers, and political leaders. They, too, are multi-faceted like the community they serve and lend an important perspective on the future of Timmins and the important role that women will continue to play.
Learn more about International Women’s Day at https://www.internationalwomensday.com.
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