The Story of A Dame As Told by Janet

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NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The work of decorated politician, Dame Janet Bostwick cannot be overstated especially when it comes to the rights of women in this country.

No doubt we’ve come a mighty long way and it’s due in part to her selfless contributions.

Her illustrious career started in service to the people of this country working in the public service before making the leap to front-line politics.

She’ll tell you unabashedly it wasn’t easy. Not because she wasn’t equipped or qualified but because she was a woman. Not just any woman, but a black woman.

Dame Janet Bostwick, born in 1939, became the first woman elected to parliament. She was the first woman to serve as attorney general and first woman to serve as acting prime minister. 

Despite those achievements, Dame Janet says the odds were against her.

She appeared on On The Record with Jerome Sawyer last month and spoke frankly about the women’s suffrage movement, how it came about and its purpose.

But the fight continued and in 1982 Dame Janet achieved what she describes as an “awestruck” moment.

Curiosity struck me about what it was like walking into Parliament for the very first time and while on the show she shared that moment with us.

Dame Janet is certainly one to be emulated by all women. Her shoulders, no doubt the shoulders upon which past and present female politicians all stand upon.