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A Century of Progress: RNUNL Marks 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage
April 4, 2025
On April 3, 1925, women in the Dominion of Newfoundland achieved the right to vote and hold public office — the result of decades of advocacy by courageous suffragists who faced ridicule, resistance, and countless barriers. One hundred years later, members of the Registered Nurses’ Union Newfoundland & Labrador were delighted to take part in celebrations honouring this historic achievement.
RNUNL President Yvette Coffey, Vice-President Kim Parsons, and Board Member Margot Antle joined dignitaries and community leaders at a commemorative event held at Confederation Building. The celebration, hosted by the Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, and the Honourable Derek Bennett, Speaker of the House of Assembly, recognized the contributions of women who have served in the Office of the Lieutenant Governor, the House of Assembly, the House of Commons, the Senate, and the judiciary — as well as public servants and gender-diverse individuals shaping the province’s future.
Board Member Margot Antle performed with the Lady Cove Women’s Choir, which offered a moving musical tribute to the occasion. The choir performed Warrior by Kim Baryluk and Daughters of Newfoundland by Maureen Ennis and Perry Chafe — songs that honoured the strength, resilience, and enduring spirit of the women who shaped Newfoundland and Labrador’s history.
“It was incredibly humbling to be in a room with women leaders, past and present — representing all levels of government, union, community, health care, business, and volunteerism,” said President Coffey. “These are great leaders, each forging their own path.”
Elsewhere in St. John’s, Vice-President Parsons and Board Member Taylor Smith attended 100 Women for 100 Years, an event hosted at the Gower Street Theatre. The evening featured a powerful conversation moderated by writer and editor Joan Sullivan, with guests including Yvonne Jones, former Premier Kathy Dunderdale, historian Margot Duley, and artist and municipal leader Sheilagh O’Leary.
The events served not only as celebrations, but also as reminders of the work still to be done.
“The right to vote and hold public office is not just a privilege — it is a responsibility. It is a call to action,” said Minister Pam Parsons in her address. “Democracy flourishes when all voices are included.”
In a profession historically and currently composed primarily of women, and led by women, RNUNL is proud to carry forward the legacy of those who paved the way. We honour their advocacy by continuing to fight for equity, representation, and expert care — for nurses, and for the communities they serve.