Is Politics Still Hostile to Women?: Part 2

Across Canada, municipal politics is often called the most accessible level of government — the place where community voices meet real decision-making.

But as we explored in Part One of “Is Harassment Getting Worse?” Series, that space is changing. Harassment is no longer occasional — for many women in municipal leadership, it’s becoming a constant backdrop to public service.

In this second part of our series, we continue that conversation — going deeper into how harassment is evolving, and what it means for those who choose to serve.

Because for many women, the challenges don’t stop at criticism. They extend into personal attacks, online abuse, and moments that cross the line from political disagreement into something far more harmful.

Today on Municipal Affairs, we’re once again having an honest, unfiltered discussion — not just about what’s happening, but about what comes next.

We’re joined by three more municipal leaders from across the country: Councillor Sarah McInnis from Humboldt, Saskatchewan; Councillor Alysson Storey from Chatham-Kent, Ontario; and Mayor Pam Mood from Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Together, they share their experiences navigating harassment in their roles, reflect on how it has changed over time, and offer insight into what needs to happen to make municipal politics safer and more sustainable for women.

This conversation doesn’t just revisit the issue — it pushes it forward. From identifying patterns to discussing solutions, we explore how municipalities, communities, and leaders themselves can respond.

Because the future of local leadership depends on who feels safe stepping up — and staying.

This is Municipal Affairs.

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