Agnes Macphail Quotes

Powerful Agnes Macphail for Daily Growth

About Agnes Macphail

Agnes Campbell Macphail (1890-1954), a trailblazer in Canadian politics, was born on November 26, 1890, in Cargill, Ontario. Raised on a farm in rural Grey County, she was the eldest of nine children. Her early life was deeply influenced by her Quaker beliefs, instilling in her a strong commitment to social justice and equality. In 1921, Agnes became the first woman elected to the Canadian House of Commons, representing the riding of Grey South. Known for her fiery speeches and progressive ideas, she championed women's suffrage, labor rights, and rural development. Her election came after a successful career as a journalist and teacher. One of Agnes Macphail's most significant works was the introduction of the Old Age Pension Act in 1927, providing financial assistance to senior citizens for the first time in Canadian history. She also played a pivotal role in the creation of the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and the Unemployment Insurance Act. In 1934, Agnes became the first woman to serve as a Senator, where she continued her advocacy for social reforms. Despite facing immense sexism and discrimination, she remained undeterred, famously stating, "I have come into this place not to make speeches, but to fight." Agnes Macphail's life and work continue to inspire generations of Canadian politicians and activists, embodying the spirit of tenacity, justice, and equality. She passed away on February 10, 1954, leaving behind a legacy that remains relevant today.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must make men realize that women have brains as well as ovaries."

This quote highlights the idea that women possess intellectual capabilities equal to men, not just reproductive ones. The intention is to challenge societal norms by emphasizing that women are more than their reproductive roles in society; they have minds, brains, capable of great thought and understanding. It is a call to recognize women's full potential as equals in all aspects of life.

"Politics is not a game. It's an earnest endeavor in the service of mankind."

Agnes Macphail's quote emphasizes that politics should not be treated as a mere game or competition, but rather as a serious and noble pursuit aimed at serving humanity. It encourages those involved in politics to prioritize the well-being and progress of society above personal interests or victory. This perspective highlights the importance of empathy, collaboration, and a focus on long-term impact when engaging in political discourse and decision making.

"Women are interested in peace just as much as men, if not more so."

This quote by Agnes Macphail emphasizes that women's interest in peace is equivalent to, or even surpasses, that of men. It suggests that the pursuit of peace should be a shared concern for all genders, acknowledging that women have historically been disproportionately affected by war and violence. This perspective underscores the importance of gender equality in peacebuilding efforts and encourages more inclusive decision-making processes regarding global peace and security.

"I have no intention of retiring from public life until I can lie down without thinking about it."

This quote by Agnes Macphail suggests her deep dedication and passion for public service. Despite the physical exhaustion that comes with a busy career in politics, she finds it difficult to detach herself entirely from public life because of her commitment to making a difference. It implies that she values her role as a public figure more than personal relaxation or retirement.

"I am a human being, like every other member of this parliament, and like every other Canadian."

This quote underscores Agnes Macphail's belief in equality and shared humanity. She emphasizes that despite her gender or role as a politician, she is essentially no different from any other member of the parliament or any other Canadian citizen. This statement was significant during her time when women were underrepresented in politics, highlighting the importance of recognizing individual worth beyond one's social status or role. It serves as a reminder that we should treat everyone with equal respect and consider their perspectives equally, regardless of gender, race, or position.

Whatever is dirty, it is women's job to clean up, or drive some man to clean up, and that goes for everything from cellar to senate.

- Agnes Macphail

Dirty, Some, Goes, Cellar

If the preservation of the home means the enslavement of women, economically or morally, then we had better break it.

- Agnes Macphail

Better, Preservation, Means, Morally

Never apologize. Never explain. Just get the thing done, and let them howl.

- Agnes Macphail

Never, Explain, Get, Howl

When I first came to the House of Commons and walked out into the lobby, men sprang to their feet. I asked them to sit down since I'd come to walk around. I didn't want them doing me favours.

- Agnes Macphail

Feet, Doing, House, Sit

I owed it to my father that I was elected to Parliament in the first place, but I owed it to my mother that I stuck it out once I got there.

- Agnes Macphail

Father, Got, Parliament, Stuck

It is a fact that all women contribute more to marriage than men; for the most part they have to change their place of living, their method of work, a great many women today changing their occupation entirely on marriage; and they must even change their name.

- Agnes Macphail

Fact, Part, Occupation, Entirely

I believe the preservation of the home in the future lies almost entirely in the hands of men.

- Agnes Macphail

Hands, Preservation, Almost, Entirely

Do not rely completely on any other human being, however dear. We meet all life's greatest tests alone.

- Agnes Macphail

Other, Human Being, However, Dear

I do not want to be the angel of any home: I want for myself what I want for other women, absolute equality. After that is secured, then men and women can take turns being angels.

- Agnes Macphail

Myself, Want, Other, Secured

If they are willing to give women economic freedom in that home, if they are willing to live by the standard they wish women to live by, then homes will be preserves.

- Agnes Macphail

Give, Will, Standard, Homes

Most of the women who have offered themselves for public office over the years have done so, I believe, more because of the 'dirt' than in spite of it.

- Agnes Macphail

More, Over, Dirt, Public Office

I want for myself what I want for other women, absolute equality.

- Agnes Macphail

Equality, Want, Other, Absolute

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