Trudeau’s feminism questioned after removing Wilson-Raybould, Philpott from caucus

OTTAWA (NEWS 1130) – A day after the prime minister kicked Jody Wilson-Raybould and Jane Philpott out of his caucus over the SNC-Lavalin affair, some young women attending a political empowerment conference on Parliament Hill are questioning his feminist credentials.

One of the attendees of the Daughters of the Vote event at the House of Commons says she is discouraged, noting she believes Wilson-Raybould and Philpott have been treated poorly by the prime minister.

“It’s one thing to call yourself a feminist but then actions do speak louder than words,” said Jasmine from B.C. “It detracts from his feminist message.”

RELATED: Supporters in Vancouver riding would back Wilson-Raybould as an Independent

The event allows young women from each riding across the country to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing women in politics.

When asked if his feminist credentials have taken a hit, Justin Trudeau said gender equality is still a priority for his government.

“We continue to move forward on significant initiatives from pay equity to funding for women’s organizations,” Trudeau added. “There’s always a lot more to do and that’s what we’re going to keep doing.”

Multiple Liberal MPs jumped to his defence, saying the controversy has nothing to do with gender and that the government’s policies prove he’s still a feminist.

Employment Minister Patty Hajdu dismissed the notion that the Liberal “feminist” brand has been damaged by the expulsion of two strong women from the governing party.

“I would consider myself a strong woman and I’ve been elected by a riding that elected a woman for the very first time. I’m proud to do the work that I’m doing on behalf of my constituents and as a minister of employment.”

-With files from the Canadian Press

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