Our Guiding Principles

At PoliticsNOW, we are deeply committed to advancing the political empowerment of women in Northern Ontario. As a catalyst for change, we strive to create a more inclusive and equitable society where women of all backgrounds can thrive. Our guiding principles are rooted in values of inclusivity, diversity, and mutual support, which drive our advocacy efforts and community engagement.

These principles serve as our compass, guiding us through the complexities of political advocacy and societal involvement. Together, we are working towards a future where every woman’s voice is heard and valued, and where leadership opportunities are abundant.

Embracing Diversity

We are committed to being an inclusive organization that honours the full spectrum of women’s identities. We actively embrace and celebrate diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and socio-economic background. Whether in our programming, our partnerships, or our day-to-day work, we champion a diverse and welcoming community. We believe that diverse voices bring richness and strength to the political landscape, and we work to ensure that everyone’s voice is not only heard but valued.

Commitment to Representation

We are unwavering in our commitment to ensuring more women — especially those from historically marginalized communities — have a seat at the table. PoliticsNOW stands behind the idea that political power should reflect the diversity of our communities. This commitment extends beyond our programming; it’s in our very foundation. From our advocacy efforts to our mentorship programs, we are tireless in our pursuit of ensuring that all women can access opportunities in political leadership and have the tools to succeed.

Mutual Support

We believe that collective power comes from mutual support and collaboration. PoliticsNOW is a community where women lift each other up. Whether through our leadership workshops, peer-to-peer mentorship, or simply standing together in solidarity, we know that we are stronger when we unite. This principle is at the heart of who we are —we provide a platform for women to share experiences, celebrate achievements, and support one another in overcoming the challenges that come with leadership roles. Together, we create an environment of encouragement, trust, and growth.

Advancing Inclusive Leadership

Our core mission is to break down the barriers that prevent women — especially those from marginalized and underrepresented groups— from accessing leadership positions. We not only create opportunities for diverse women to gain political experience but also work to shift the culture of leadership itself. PoliticsNOW advocates for more inclusive decision-making spaces and strives to make leadership positions more accessible and equitable. We take concrete actions to ensure that the leadership landscape reflects the full diversity of society.

Safe and Supportive Environments

We are committed to fostering environments where all women feel safe, respected, and supported. PoliticsNOW actively creates and upholds safe spaces in both our virtual and in-person work, where individuals can express themselves without fear of discrimination or exclusion. We recognize that safety is foundational to empowerment, which is why we prioritize creating supportive environments that are welcoming to everyone, including trans and non-binary individuals. We are resolute in our stance against harassment, discrimination, and exclusion in all forms, ensuring that our community is a place where people can thrive.

Fostering Equality, Empowering Change

By adhering to these Guiding Principles, we affirm our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for women's political empowerment in Northern Ontario.

We are dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations who share these values of integrity, respect, and accountability. In situations where these values are not upheld, we reserve the right to reassess our level of support.

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