Welcome

Still Counting is a short and accessible account of why scholars and activists continue to count the number of women elected to Canada’s legislatures. The book, published by Peterborough’s Broadview Press, demonstrates that, by any measure, women are only halfway to equal. Authors Linda Trimble and Jane Arscott argue that an “electoral glass ceiling” is keeping women at or below the 25 per cent mark, restricting women to less than half of the seats that would be theirs in a democracy committed to balanced, equitable and fair representation. Moreover, little is being done to address this ongoing democratic deficit. Despite drawbacks, such as the “revolving door” for female party leaders and continued sexism in legislatures, women can, and do, make a difference in politics. That’s why it’s important to elect many more, and more diverse, women to Canada’s parliament and legislatures.

Still Counting Website

There are lots of numbers in our book, many of which will quickly become dated as elections are held, cabinets are shuffled, and new party leaders are selected. So, in the interest of helping everyone track the numbers as they evolve, a complete set of tables is available and updated periodically on this website, hosted by Athabasca University. This site also offers readers of Still Counting to have a say, and we certainly welcome feedback. We are especially interested to learn about ways readers and surfers use the information provided in the book and on the site to develop their own knowledge. We know there is a lot more fun to be had with this material, and we invite you to offer your opinions, stories, and observations.