By Joanne Ball-Burgess, B.A., M.Ed., PLP Candidate for C25, Warwick Northeast

 "Representation matters, not only for political balance but because it ensures that the unique health, economic, and social needs of our communities are addressed in meaningful ways." 🌟

The Progressive Labour Party is proud to have nominated a record number of women in this election—the highest in Bermuda’s history. While it's significant to have a record number of women candidates, beyond that, our country’s leaders in politics must embody the values that we stand for as a country. This means ensuring that policies are made with guidance from diverse voices, including both men and women, to reflect the unique needs of our communities.

From advancing women’s healthcare to strengthening protections against domestic violence, expanding economic opportunities for women entrepreneurs, and ensuring access to affordable housing—particularly for those seeking safety from abusive situations—we believe that women’s voices must guide the conversation on policy and implementation.

With strong representation, we are building a Bermuda where every woman has the opportunity to thrive. But we are not there yet. Until we achieve true gender parity—where at least 50% of candidates in all parties are women of varying ages, socio-economic backgrounds, sexual orientations, and family structures—our work is not done.

Representation matters, not only for political balance but because it ensures that the unique health, economic, and social needs of our communities are addressed in transformative ways. The United Nations recommends encouraging greater involvement of women who may be marginalized, including indigenous women, women with disabilities, women from rural areas, and women of any ethnic, cultural, or religious minority, in decision-making at all levels. It also addresses and counters the barriers faced by marginalized women in accessing and participating in politics and decision-making at all levels (UN Women, 2025).

Women, especially Black women in Bermuda, are among the most educated and hardworking members of our society. They contribute significantly to the island’s workforce, yet their leadership remains underrepresented in the highest levels of decision-making. This must change.

True progress means recognizing that the fight for gender equality is ongoing, and that we must continue to fight and work for equity in society. The United Nations also recommends strongly encouraging political parties to remove all barriers that directly or indirectly discriminate against the participation of women, to develop their capacity to analyze issues from a gender perspective, and to adopt policies, as appropriate, to promote the ability of women to participate fully at all levels of decision-making within those political parties (UN Women, 2025).

We must also expand the conversation to include others who are on the margins of society—those who need support and a voice in our community and society. We must not only celebrate the achievements of women but actively work to ensure that they are given the space, resources, and opportunities to lead.

The next generation is watching, and it is our responsibility to create a Bermuda where every young girl knows that she has an equal chance to lead, shape policy, and build a brighter future for us all. 🌈

References: UN Women. (2025, January 22). Global norms and standards: Leadership and political participation. UN Women