The Vote that Broke the Silence

Before women in Manitoba became the first to gain voting rights in Canada, they were considered second-class citizens and were expected to live strictly domestic lives without any say in politics. The continuous struggle for women’s suffrage was felt not only in Canada, but also around the world; suffrage movements in other countries influenced Canadian women to fight for a vote as well. The success of Canadian women’s campaign can be attributed to three major factors: the support of many influential groups and people, their continuously growing voice, and their proof of capability through their service and sacrifice in the First World War. Recognized for its success in 1916, the campaign for women’s suffrage was an unrelenting effort that never lost its concentration and momentum.
 
The Vote that Broke the Silence

Jennifer Tan

Grade 11

Mount Douglas Secondary
Victoria, British Columbia

I chose this question because I admire women who worked hard to be noticed and listened to at a time when the world was dominated by men.

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