NDP statement on the loss of Margaret Mitchell

NDP Leader Thomas Mulcair made the following statement on the passing of former NDP MP Margaret Mitchell:

"It is with great sadness that New Democrats have learned of the passing of Margaret Mitchell.

Yesterday, on International Women’s Day, we lost a truly great member of NDP family and an unflinching advocate for women’s equality.

Mitchell’s work fighting for women’s rights, civil rights, and to stop domestic violence was ground-breaking and helped forge the path towards women’s equality in Canada.

As the MP for Vancouver East from 1979 until 1993, she was one of the first Canadian politicians to demand action to stop domestic violence against women. Famously in 1982, when she raised the issue of domestic abuse in the House of Commons, male members of the House began laughing and shouting.

Mitchell furiously replied: 'This is no laughing matter.'

Her legacy is forever woven into the history of the women’s movement in Canada. We honour her memory today and every day, by fighting for women’s rights and a better Canada where no one is left behind."