Women’s Political Ambitions Ignite as Initiative Launches Nationwide

UPDATE: A groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering women to run for local elections in Ireland has gained momentum, transforming political aspirations into reality. See Her Elected (SHE), launched in January 2020 by Longford Women’s Link, is actively encouraging women to step into the political arena as local elections approach in 2029.

This movement, led by Michelle Maher, aims to dismantle barriers that have historically hindered female participation in politics. Maher’s journey began in 2008 after experiencing skepticism from a male local councillor. His dismissive comment about her political ambitions became a catalyst for her activism. Today, she channels that energy into supporting women across Ireland, helping them navigate the complexities of local governance.

In just five years, SHE’s impact has been significant. The program supported 40% of the 679 female candidates in the last local elections, leading to 99 successful candidates who received SHE’s backing. While the overall percentage of elected women remains steady, the sheer number of female candidates is the highest recorded in Irish history.

The initiative expanded rapidly due to the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning online and reaching women nationwide. Maher emphasizes the importance of this expansion, stating, “What was intended to be a six-county project in the Northwest Midlands became a nationwide effort.”

The upcoming local elections are not just about numbers; they represent a cultural shift in how women view their roles in politics. Maher and her team, including communication manager Megan Flynn Dixon and digital coordinator Elaine Duggan, provide essential resources, tips, and workshops. They aim to demystify the electoral process for women, encouraging them to see themselves as viable candidates.

“Many women don’t recognize the value of their community work,” Maher reflects. She highlights how women contribute significantly to local associations, fundraising efforts, and community support systems, making them well-qualified for political roles. “Women aren’t afraid to get involved in things,” she asserts, noting that these experiences prepare them for council roles.

SHE’s workshops are designed to fit into the busy lives of women, with sessions timed to accommodate their schedules. The initiative recently launched a new guide to running for local elections, furthering their commitment to supporting aspiring candidates.

“Going to a council meeting will show you that councillors are just ordinary people,” Maher advises. Her personal experiences underscore the need for representation in local politics. She recalls passing a “wall of men” in council chambers, a stark reminder of the gender imbalance.

Despite the challenges, including entrenched incumbents with deep community ties, Maher urges potential candidates to act now. “If you want to see yourself as a county councillor in 2029, the groundwork you lay today will be crucial,” she states.

As SHE prepares for the upcoming elections, Maher remains steadfast in her mission. She views the derogatory remarks aimed at women in politics as motivation rather than obstacles. “There’s a moral imperative for us to prove them wrong,” she insists.

With the SHE initiative gaining traction, the call to action is clear. Women interested in making a difference are encouraged to join the movement, participate in workshops, and utilize the resources provided. The future of women in Irish politics is bright, and the time to act is now.

Stay tuned for more updates as SHE continues to pave the way for a more inclusive political landscape.