Jobaaj Stories
Donna Skelly Makes History as Ontario's First Female Speaker
Ontario's Queen's Park witnessed a historic moment on April 14, 2025, as Progressive Conservative MPP Donna Skelly was elected as the province's first female Speaker. This momentous occasion marked a significant milestone in Ontario's political landscape, breaking a long-standing tradition and prompting widespread celebration and reflection.
A Hard-Fought Victory and a Historic Milestone
The election wasn't without its drama. While a female Speaker was virtually guaranteed with only NDP MPP Jennifer French as Skelly's opponent, the secret ballot vote created a palpable sense of anticipation. Skelly, who previously served as Deputy Speaker, ultimately triumphed, prompting joyous applause and heartfelt congratulations from across the political spectrum. Premier Doug Ford himself expressed his surprise that it had taken this long for a woman to hold the position, highlighting the significance of the achievement.
Skelly's Vision for a More Collaborative Legislature
In her acceptance speech, Skelly expressed her deep honor and privilege at becoming Speaker, emphasizing the importance of this landmark moment. She outlined her key priorities, which center around bridging the divide between Queen's Park and the province's northern and rural communities. She also aims to foster a more collaborative and respectful atmosphere within the legislature, calling for less personal attacks and increased cooperation among MPPs. Her approach, as expressed in her own words, is to create a more professional environment, with "less chaos" during question periods.
Reactions and Broader Implications
The election garnered widespread praise. Equal Voice, a group advocating for gender equality in politics, hailed the event as long overdue, emphasizing the importance of increased representation of women in leadership roles. Other political leaders, including Ontario Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie, also extended their congratulations. The Ontario Federation of Labour expressed hopes that Skelly's leadership would promote meaningful cross-party collaboration and uphold democratic processes.
A Legacy of Service and a New Chapter
Donna Skelly's journey to becoming Speaker is a testament to her dedication and perseverance. A former broadcast journalist and Hamilton city councillor, her political career has been marked by significant achievements. Her election as Speaker marks not only a personal triumph but also a significant step forward for women in Ontario politics, inspiring future generations to pursue leadership roles. This historic appointment signals a potential shift toward a more inclusive and collaborative political landscape in Ontario.
