Inspiration. Icon. Advocate. Trailblazer. Mentor. These are only a few of the words being used to describe Alexa McDonough after her death today. She was the first female leader of a major political party when she led the Nova Scotia provincial NDP and she sat in the provincial legislature as a lone woman -- when there were no bathrooms for female legisltators. She then moved into the realm of federal politics and sat as MP for one of the Halifax ridings and as party leader for the national NDP. Alexa fought for equity in terms of gender, race, religion, socioeconomic status and so much more. Her professional life began in the field of social work with the provincial public service and then teaching at a local university. I saw her once at the dining room of the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa where she was in a working lunch. I was with a few colleagues attending a conference. I remember her ever present, genuine smile in the many media interviews and sound bites over the years. It was part of her sincere interest in the people she encountered. She left the world a much better place.
I've included a link to her obituary, which includes a link to a video highlighting her legacy. I recommend checking out each of these.
Legacy Video Link -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GO4DucLdBQU
Storm update -- there has been much blowing snow with a bit of new snow falling all day long. I did some shoveling in the late morning to move snow off the front porch, stairs and small sidewalk. I felt fatigued and the wind was wicked, so I headed back inside to deal with things when the weather improves -- likely not until tomorrow morning.
The song chosen for today speaks to what the world could be if we focus on improving equity for all -- something that lies at the core of Alexa McDonough's legacy. Keep safe. Enjoy!
Imagine -- John Lennon & the Plastic Ono Band (with the Flux Fiddlers)
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