Judy LaMarsh Quotes
- Politician
- Canada
- 1924
Judy LaMarsh (1924-1980) was a Canadian politician, lawyer, and author. She was the first female Cabinet Minister in Canada, serving as Secretary of State in the government of Lester B. Pearson. LaMarsh was also the first woman to run for the leadership of a major Canadian political party. She was a…Read More
Judy LaMarsh (1924-1980) was a Canadian politician, lawyer, and author. She was the first female Cabinet Minister in Canada, serving as Secretary of State in the government of Lester B. Pearson. LaMarsh was also the first woman to run for the leadership of a major Canadian political party. She was a prolific author, publishing several books on Canadian politics, including her memoirs, Memoirs of a Bird in a Gilded Cage (1968). LaMarsh was a passionate advocate for women’s rights and was instrumental in the passage of the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960. She was also a strong advocate for Indigenous rights and was a founding member of the National Indian Brotherhood. LaMarsh was posthumously inducted into the Order of Canada in 1981.Read Less
Judy LaMarsh (1924-1980) was a Canadian politician, lawyer, and author. She was the first female Cabinet Minister in Canada, serving as Secretary of State in the government of Lester B. Pearson. LaMarsh was also the first woman to run for the leadership of a major Canadian political party. She was a prolific author, publishing several books on Canadian politics, including her memoirs, Memoirs of a Bird in a Gilded Cage (1968). LaMarsh was a passionate advocate for women’s rights and was instrumental in the passage of the Canadian Bill of Rights in 1960. She was also a strong advocate for Indigenous rights and was a founding member of the National Indian Brotherhood. LaMarsh was posthumously inducted into the Order of Canada in 1981.
Judy LaMarsh Career Highlights
- LaMarsh began her career as a lawyer, graduating from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1950. She then worked as a lawyer in Toronto before entering politics.
- In 1960, LaMarsh was elected as a Member of Parliament (MP) for the Liberal Party of Canada in the riding of Niagara Falls. She was re-elected in 1962 and 1963.
- In 1963, LaMarsh was appointed as the Minister of National Health and Welfare, becoming the first woman to hold a federal cabinet position in Canada.
- As Minister of National Health and Welfare, LaMarsh introduced several groundbreaking policies, including the Canada Pension Plan, the Medical Care Act, and the Hospital Insurance and Diagnostic Services Act.
- In 1965, LaMarsh was appointed as the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, where she oversaw the implementation of the new Immigration Act, which abolished discriminatory immigration policies.
- In 1968, LaMarsh was appointed as the Minister of Amateur Sport, becoming the first woman to hold this position. She played a crucial role in the organization of the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
- LaMarsh also served as the Minister of National Defence and the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development during her political career.
- In addition to her political career, LaMarsh was also a prolific author, writing several books, including her autobiography “Memoirs of a Bird in a Gilded Cage” and “The Class of ’44: An Autobiography.”
Key Contributions by Judy LaMarsh
- LaMarsh’s most significant contribution was breaking the glass ceiling for women in Canadian politics. She paved the way for future female politicians and inspired many women to enter the political arena.
- As Minister of National Health and Welfare, LaMarsh introduced policies that greatly improved the lives of Canadians, especially the elderly and those in need of healthcare.
- LaMarsh’s work as Minister of Citizenship and Immigration helped to create a more inclusive and diverse Canada by abolishing discriminatory immigration policies.
- As Minister of Amateur Sport, LaMarsh played a crucial role in the successful organization of the 1976 Montreal Olympics, which brought international recognition to Canada.
What Sets Judy LaMarsh Apart
- LaMarsh was a trailblazer and a pioneer for women in Canadian politics. She faced significant challenges and discrimination as a woman in a male-dominated field but persevered and achieved great success.
- LaMarsh was known for her strong and assertive personality, often described as a “force of nature.” She was not afraid to speak her mind and stand up for what she believed in, even if it went against popular opinion.
- LaMarsh’s dedication to public service and her passion for making a positive impact on people’s lives set her apart from other politicians. She was a true advocate for social justice and equality.
Takeaways
- Judy LaMarsh’s career highlights and key contributions demonstrate her significant impact on Canadian politics and society.
- Her determination, resilience, and passion for public service serve as an inspiration for future generations, especially women, to pursue their dreams and make a difference in their communities.
- LaMarsh’s legacy continues to live on, and her contributions to Canadian politics and society will always be remembered.