Do We Need a Woman in City Hall?

This gender and elected officials issue has been coming up a lot lately, huh?  And I've guiltily limited my thinking around the issue to the race for the White House.  But when I read the O's endorsement of Amanda Fritz this morning (while my 5-YO made "wine" in the kitchen sink with food dye and water), it struck me that after 12 years with a woman running the show 'round here, it's all guys now and might just stay that way.  Does it matter? 

Perhaps it's not a feminist concern because we've had Vera, we've had Barbara (and Betty!) Roberts.  So maybe it's about having a woman in on the decision making to add that - how to say it? - 'female' perspective.  She's clearly qualified, so there's no worry on that count.  Amanda has her very own blog, so maybe we should mosey on over and see what she has to say about the need for a woman in city hall.  There are some really good candidates for the seat she's running for, so help me, mamas - I need input on this one. 

Maybe she'd be willing to sit down and talk with us mamas??

Comments

[LeeAnn]

I'm a little torn (and full disclosure: My husband's on Bissonnette's steering committee, altho' I don't think it colors my thinking) on this. It seems like a natural fit: Activistas and Amanda Fritz. It's a shame she hasn't already been interviewed by this group. On the other hand... I really liked the policy of "we'll interview you if you ask us." It seems the fairest way to do this.

Overall, I guess it's better to initiate contact w/ her than to not, for the sake of getting the activista input of all the candidates...

[Amanda Fritz]

I was not aware of Activistas, or I would certainly have asked to talk with you. So, now I've found you, would you please interview me? Please call my office at 503-235-2295 to schedule a meeting.

The Portland City Council was established in 1851 with five members. In the ensuing 157 years, six women have served on the Council. I especially appreciated the Oregonian's endorsement this morning because it stated I am the strongest, most polished, and most prepared candidate. I am also glad that the candidate so described happens to be a woman and mother of three. My experiences over almost 22 years of parenting and community activism here in Portland will surely provide a different perspective if I am elected to the City Council.

[LeeAnn]

Wow!

[LTF]

Activistas is sitting down to chat with Amanda Thursday, May 15th @ 9 am at the downtown Peet's coffee if you're interested in joining us. Hope to see you!