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Emily Murphy, Rebel Christine Mander: Groundbreaking Trailblazers in Canadian History

Haruki Murakami

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Emily Murphy: Rebel

by Christine Mander

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The struggle for women's rights in Canada is a rich and multifaceted story, with many remarkable women playing pivotal roles. Among them, Emily Murphy and Christine Mander stand out as true pioneers, whose contributions have left an enduring mark on the nation.

Emily Murphy: The Rebellious Jurist

Emily Murphy was born in Cookstown, Ontario, in 1868. She became a teacher and later a journalist before entering the legal profession at a time when few women were allowed to practice law. Her sharp wit and determination earned her the nickname "the rebel lawyer." In 1916, she became the first female magistrate in the British Empire.

Murphy was a vocal advocate for women's suffrage and other feminist causes. In 1927, she and four other women (Henrietta Muir Edwards, Nellie McClung, Louise McKinney, and Irene Parlby) known as the "Famous 5" took the "Persons Case" to the Supreme Court of Canada. This landmark case challenged the interpretation of the British North America Act, which had excluded women from being considered "persons" under the law.

In 1929, the Privy Council in London ruled in favor of the Famous 5, recognizing women as persons under the law. This ruling paved the way for women to be appointed to the Senate, serve on juries, and hold public office.

Murphy continued to be an active advocate for women's rights throughout her life. She served as the first female judge in Canada in 1933 and as a senator from 1935 until her death in 1939.

Christine Mander: Activist and Educator

Christine Mander was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, in 1879. She became a teacher and later the principal of Morley School in Winnipeg. She was also a dedicated activist for women's rights and social justice issues.

Mander was a founding member of the Women's Social and Political Union in Canada, which advocated for women's suffrage. She was also involved in the National Council of Women of Canada and served as its president from 1924 to 1926.

In 1910, Mander and her colleagues established the Women's College in Winnipeg, which later became the University of Winnipeg. This institution was dedicated to providing higher education for women.

Mander's activism extended beyond women's rights. She was also a strong advocate for peace and disarmament. In 1915, she helped to organize the Canadian Women's Peace Movement and served as its president until 1918.

Mander continued to be active in public life until her death in 1944. She was inducted into the Canadian Women's Hall of Fame in 1994.

Legacy of Rebellious Pioneers

Emily Murphy and Christine Mander were remarkable women who made significant contributions to Canadian society. Their activism and determination helped to advance the cause of women's rights and social justice in Canada.

The legacy of these two trailblazers is still felt today. Their work has inspired generations of women and girls to pursue their dreams and fight for what they believe in.

Emily Murphy

Emily Murphy, First Female Magistrate In The British Empire And Member Of The Famous 5 Emily Murphy: Rebel Christine Mander

Born: March 14, 1868, Cookstown, Ontario
Died: October 17, 1939, Edmonton, Alberta
Occupation: Teacher, journalist, lawyer, judge, senator
Key achievements:

First female magistrate in the British Empire (1916)
Member of the Famous 5 who took the Persons Case to the Supreme Court of Canada (1927)
First female judge in Canada (1933)
Senator (1935-1939)

Christine Mander

Born: July 16, 1879, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Died: August 27, 1944, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Occupation: Teacher, principal, activist, educator
Key achievements:

Founding member of the Women's Social and Political Union in Canada
President of the National Council of Women of Canada (1924-1926)
Co-founder of the Women's College in Winnipeg (later the University of Winnipeg)
President of the Canadian Women's Peace Movement (1915-1918)

The stories of Emily Murphy and Christine Mander are a testament to the power of determination and activism. Their work has made a lasting difference in the lives of women and girls in Canada and beyond.

Emily Murphy: Rebel

by Christine Mander

4 out of 5