While we might not be casting ballots here in Canada, the election’s effects will linger across the borders. Amanda Zavitz, executive director of programming with the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario shared that this election will affect the trajectory of gender equality across North America.
“This is a pivotal moment in terms of gender equality in North America because really all of the things gender equality stands for are anti trump.” Said Zavitz.
The watch party called ‘a cheer for change’ was held by the Gender Equality Coalition of Ontario in partnership with The London and District Labour Council, the event was a part of their #connectHER project, which aims to end sexism in the trades among other women’s rights these organizations fight for.
“I am not going to stand by and watch them be taken away, we have to be ready to fight.” Said Patti Dalton, president of the London and District Labour Council.
The watch party drew a crowd of community members and activists who watched closely as the election results unfolded. As political leaders in the U.S. debate reproductive rights, gender equality, and social justice, Canadians are also reflecting on the potential impacts these developments could have ahead of their election, expected next October.
“The trumpification of society from my perspective is one that supports and even normalizes things like racism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, hate and division among people which is everything the feminist movement stands against” said Zavitz.
The crowd reacted together as the results from each state trickled in.
“We thought it would be sort of fun to bring together people on our side who are cheering for the same team, and either way we can be really celebratory together, or even shed a few tears together, it’s just nice to be with like-minded people.” said Zavitz.
The results came through overnight which was highly unexpected by many. Matt Farrell, a political science professor shared “it takes a long time to count the votes, so we just need to be mindful that in a situation where some states are really close its okay to go to bed that night not knowing the results, it’s entirely possible the election will be too close to call on election night”.
Donald Trump will be the next president of the United States, winning with 295 electoral votes and Kamala Harris finished with 226 electoral votes.
Zavits took to Linked In this morning sharing her emotions around the outcome.
“Trump’s win is so sad. US voters lined up to support racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, division, and hate. It is devastating and disheartening. The election had so much to do with the social constructions of gender. I am scared for women’s rights, for the further construction of violent and crass masculinity, and I am terrified for my trans and queer friends and loved ones. I am petrified that history is repeating itself.” Posted Zavitz.
