Minister Audrey Gordon encourages others to reach for their dreams, even when it seems impossible.
“I’m so humbled and honoured to be a trailblazer and lead the way by opening the door for other black individuals to enter politics and to know it’s possible. I hope my accomplishment inspires people who may have given up on their dream, regardless of race, ethnicity or skin colour,” she said. “It may be hard and it may take time, but it’s not impossible if you keep believing in yourself. You need to have mentors, and you need grit, perseverance and determination. Just because you’ve failed doesn’t mean you can’t pick yourself up and try again.” Gordon recognizes that she may serve as a role model, just as other women have inspired her along her journey. “There were others who opened the doors in these sectors to make it possible for me to be here today. I’m grateful for what they’ve done to pave the way. We need to celebrate women and their breakthroughs across the sectors,” Gordon said. “As women, we are strong. We can be stronger by moving forward together in a unified way. It’s been quite a journey for me, but I’m very glad to be here.” ◗
Moving ever upwards, Gordon became minister of the new provincial department of health, wellness and recovery in January 2021. On her way “I’m so humbled and honoured to be a trailblazer and lead the home from the swearing-in ceremony, she realized she’s now the first black cabinet minister in Manitoba’s history. way by opening the door for other black individuals to enter politics and to know it’s possible.”
<<CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS
She felt compelled to do more than merely talk about the situation, so she surprised her husband when she told him about her plans to run in the next election. “I have to be a candle that is lit in what I consider to be a dark space, so I came forward as a candidate for nomination. A lot of people were surprised. I wasn’t a shoo-in and I had to work really hard,” she said. “I was not successful in that election, but I was successful in terms of learning how to run a campaign and how to be competitive.” Rising to the challenge, Gordon put her name on the ballot again in the next election as the Progressive Conservative candidate for the Southdale riding. She was elected Southdale MLA on Sept. 10, 2019.
Celebrating International Women’s Day.
Brian Pallister MLA for Fort Whyte 204.489.0828
Audrey Gordon MLA for Southdale 204.415.7397
Eileen Clarke MLA for Agassiz 204.385.2469
Cathy Cox MLA Kildonan - River East 204.334.7866
Sarah Guillemard MLA for Fort Richmond 204.221.8881
Janice Morley-Lecomte MLA for Seine River 204.253.4509
Rochelle Squires MLA for Riel 204.615.5241
Heather Stefanson MLA for Tuxedo 204.487.0013
16 CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Powered by FlippingBook