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Women in Politics: Don’t Wait for Somebody, Be Somebody

Editorial / Opinion Piece / Blog Post

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June 5, 2026

Women in Politics: Don’t Wait for Somebody, Be Somebody

Source: The Golden Star

This October, Golden, along with the rest of British Columbia, will head to the polls. Residents will vote for mayor, town councillors, school trustees, and regional district representatives. While the election is still five months away, it is never too early to start thinking about what we want from our local government and who we want leading the next chapter of our community.

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of sitting down with Connie Barlow, Joy Guyot, Kristi Cooper, and Karen Cathcart for a discussion about women in local politics.

The discussion was held at The Island Restaurant and was open to the public. Organized by the Golden Women’s Resource Centre, the event created a welcoming atmosphere with refreshments and childcare available for parents who wanted to attend.

The conversation centred on the experiences of women in local politics, the challenges they face, the sacrifices they make, and the reasons they continue to serve. It was also a call to action, encouraging more local women to become involved in civic life.

“I noticed and respected the women that I saw doing things, and I thought, I’m going to be one of those women,” Cooper shared.

Full article.

Author
Rachel Howard - Local Journalism Initiative
Focus areas

This October, Golden, along with the rest of British Columbia, will head to the polls. Residents will vote for mayor, town councillors, school trustees, and regional district representatives. While the election is still five months away, it is never too early to start thinking about what we want from our local government and who we want leading the next chapter of our community.

Last Wednesday, I had the privilege of sitting down with Connie Barlow, Joy Guyot, Kristi Cooper, and Karen Cathcart for a discussion about women in local politics.

The discussion was held at The Island Restaurant and was open to the public. Organized by the Golden Women’s Resource Centre, the event created a welcoming atmosphere with refreshments and childcare available for parents who wanted to attend.

The conversation centred on the experiences of women in local politics, the challenges they face, the sacrifices they make, and the reasons they continue to serve. It was also a call to action, encouraging more local women to become involved in civic life.

“I noticed and respected the women that I saw doing things, and I thought, I’m going to be one of those women,” Cooper shared.

Full article.

Author
Rachel Howard - Local Journalism Initiative
Focus areas