Parliament Video: Jenny in the House: Statement on the late Margaret Mitchell

On March 22, 2017, Jenny rose to speak of Margaret Mitchell:

Jenny Kwan (NDP) Vancouver East, BC

"Mr. Speaker, on International Women's Day, the universe lost a champion of social justice and a staunch advocate for women's rights with the passing of former Vancouver East MP, Margaret Mitchell.

In 1982, Margaret stood in Parliament and brought attention to the shameful reality that 10% of Canadian women were experiencing domestic violence and was laughed at by the men in the House. Unflinching, Margaret responded “That's no laughing matter”. It was a watershed moment that woke the consciousness of Canada.

She was never afraid to take on issues. Margaret was the first MP who stood in the House demanding the federal government redress the Chinese head tax. She challenged health authorities who wanted to stop the sale of Chinese barbecued pork and duck. Her legacy and fighting spirit will always be felt in Vancouver East.

A condolences book is available. I invite people to share their memories of Margaret with her family and friends."

https://openparliament.ca/debates/2017/3/22/jenny-kwan-1/

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