Lack of women, gender-diverse candidates is ‘disappointing’: Hamilton YWCA

YWCA Hamilton sees many bright spots" among those taking a run at public office in this fall's municipal elections.

They include many qualified women and gender-diverse" candidates in Hamilton and Halton Region alike, CEO Denise Christopherson says.

But it's disappointing" that less than half of all hopefuls that signed up for the Oct. 24 vote are within those demographics, she noted, also pointing to a similar deficit in Halton Region.

With this in mind, YWCA Hamilton will be watching the candidates closely and advocating for policies that advance gender equity in Hamilton and Halton."

Hamilton's 2018-22 council has nine men and seven women. Two women and five men aren't seeking re-election.

Horwath's vision'

Speaking of women, Hamilton mayoral candidate Andrea Horwath plans to share her vision" for the city next month.

The former Ontario NDP leader has faced criticism for not speaking to policy or producing a platform since entering the race in late July.

This week, Horwath's campaign said she's always been a listener" and it's important for her to hear what Hamiltonians have to say."

She has been busy meeting with the community and listening to their ideas, and she's very excited to outline her vision for Hamilton."

Expect that to happen the week of Sept. 12.

Rivals - including Bob Bratina, Ejaz Butt and Keanin Loomis - have publicized platforms in varying degrees of detail.

Teviah Moro is a reporter at The Spectator. tmoro@thespec.com