A candid discussion with Dr. Laura Mae Lindo

Barriers to equity: Women, political representation and family By Tracelyn Cornelius University Relations Women face signifi cant barriers when it comes to achieving equity, particularly in politics Dr. Laura Mae Lindo, the Kitchener Centre Member of Provincial Parliament, addressed these issues at a recent event as part of International Women's Day (IWD) series hosted and organized by the University of Waterloo in collaboration with the Women in Communications and Technology Waterloo Region Chapter (WCT WR Speaking at March 1 discussion called Barriers to equity: Women, political representation & fami Lindo shared personal experiences o f bein g a Black single parent involved in politics. highlighted that ident ifying and addressing barriers to equity for women is particularly timely and relevant Canada strive s to create a more equitable society, not just for women but for everyone. "Women face various barriers when it comes to achieving equity, s he said. " There is a need for a deeper understanding of the barriers that prevent racialized women from advancing in the system. This involves collecting and analyzing data women fail to advance recognizing the intersectional identities of women and having meaningful conversations about the issues Lindo recently announced that she was leaving politics in July to join the University of Water as a faculty member in the department of Philosophy in Fall 20 23. Addressing her reasons for resigning , Lindo revealed that while she d id experience racism as Kitchener's first Black MPP a lack of childcare was the primary reason for her resignation.