Today, on International Women’s Day, we reflect on the journey of the women who came before us, the progress we have made, and the work that remains.
The Bermuda Progressive Labour Party has always been a champion for women, standing on the shoulders of giants who broke barriers and paved the way for those who followed. Dame Lois Browne-Evans, a trailblazer, became not only Bermuda’s first female Attorney General but also the first woman in the entire Commonwealth to lead an opposition party. She shattered ceilings, redefined what was possible, and inspired generations of women to step forward and lead.
That legacy of leadership continues today. In our history, three women have served as Party Leader — Dame Lois Browne-Evans, Dame Jennifer Smith, and Paula Cox. This speaks to our commitment to representation and inclusion, not just by making room at the table for women but by being willing to be led by them as well.
Today, we stand proud to have had the highest number of women ever to run as PLP candidates and now have the largest number of women serving in Cabinet in Bermuda’s history. This is a reflection of a movement and a Party that believes in the power, potential, and leadership of women.
Our Commitment to Women: Beyond Representation
But our work is not only about representation and inclusion — it is about action. Under the PLP, we have taken concrete steps to uplift and support women at every stage of life. Our initiatives include:
-
Expanded Maternity Leave
-
Introduction of Bermuda’s First Minimum Wages
-
Expanded Access to Affordable Childcare
-
Introduction of Anti-Revenge Porn Laws
-
Alerts for When Sexual Predators Return to the Community
-
Toughened Penalties Against Paedophiles
These are just some of the ways we are working to protect and uplift our women.
The Journey Continues: Committed to Gender Equality
Yet, as we celebrate today, we know that our journey is far from over. The fight for gender equality is not just about political leadership — it is about economic security, safety, dignity, and the freedom to thrive. It is about making sure that every woman and girl in Bermuda has the opportunity to reach her full potential, free from discrimination, free from fear, and with every door open to a brighter future.
So, let us recommit ourselves to this work. Let us lift as we climb, support one another, and ensure that the next generation of women knows no limits. Together, we will continue the fight for a more equal, more inclusive, and fairer Bermuda for all of us.