Breaking Barriers: The Rise of Female and Gender-Diverse Political Leaders in Ontario 

Ontario has witnessed a remarkable transformation in political leadership over the past few decades, as women continue to take their place in positions of power once dominated by men. From grassroots activism to holding the highest offices in the province, female politicians in Ontario are reshaping the political landscape, advocating for equity, inclusion and community-driven policy. 

The Feb. 27, 2025 Ontario election brought fresh faces among female and gender-diverse representatives to the province’s legislature, alongside historic milestones in leadership roles. 

​​​​Catherine McKenney​​​ 

Elected in the 2025 general election, Catherine McKenney transitioned from Ottawa City Council to the Ontario legislature, representing Ottawa Centre for the New Democratic Party (NDP). Non-binary and using they/them pronouns, McKenney is now a provincial advocate with deep experience in local governance and social justice initiatives 

​​​​Aislinn Clancy​​​ 

First elected in a 2023 by‑election, Aislinn Clancy was re‑elected in 2025 under the Green banner. A former city councillor and social worker, Clancy continues to focus on housing affordability, homelessness prevention and community-led policy in Waterloo Region. 

​​​​Jess Dixon​​​ 

A lawyer and former Crown attorney, Jess Dixon was elected in 2022 and successfully re‑elected in 2025. She has served as Parliamentary Assistant and is a growing influence within the Progressive Conservative (PC) caucus in Southwestern Ontario. 

​​​​Donna Skelly​​​ 

Though not newly elected, Donna Skelly, PC MPP for Flamborough-Glanbrook, made history in April 2025 as the first female Speaker of the Ontario legislature. Skelly, a former deputy speaker and Hamilton TV journalist, outlined her commitment to professionalism and cross-party collaboration in the House. 

​​​​Kathleen Wynne​​​ 

Perhaps the most iconic example is Kathleen Wynne, who made history in 2013 by becoming Ontario’s first female premier and the first openly gay premier in Canada. A Liberal leader, Wynne’s tenure marked a significant moment in Canadian politics, not only for her policies on education and social assistance but also for what her election represented: a break in the long-standing barriers that kept women and LGBTQ+ individuals on the margins of political leadership. 

​​​​Andrea Horwath​​​ 

Another formidable figure is Andrea Horwath, who served as the leader of the Ontario NDP for 13 years and led the party through four provincial elections. As the first woman to lead the Ontario NDP, Horwath became a consistent voice for workers, tenants and marginalized communities. In 2022, she made a historic shift, becoming the first female mayor of Hamilton. 

​​​​Christine Elliott​​     ​​​ 

Christine Elliott, a prominent PC, has also made lasting contributions to Ontario politics. Serving multiple terms as MPP and holding the position of deputy premier and Minister of Health, Elliott was instrumental in overseeing the province’s healthcare system during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her tenure illustrated both the challenges and leadership women bring to complex, high-pressure portfolios. 

​​​​Bonnie Crombie​​​ 

At the municipal level, Bonnie Crombie, the former mayor of Mississauga, emerged as a dynamic leader known for urban innovation and inclusive governance. In 2023, she launched a successful bid to lead the Ontario Liberal Party, positioning herself as a centrist voice aiming to rebuild the party’s strength in the province. 

​​​​Marit Stiles​​​ 

Rising voices like Marit Stiles, who took over as leader of the Ontario NDP in 2023, represent a new generation of women in politics. With a background in education and advocacy, Stiles brings a fresh perspective to Queen’s Park, championing public education, climate justice and affordable housing. 

Female political leaders in Ontario have played crucial roles in advancing policies related to healthcare, education, social services and gender equity. Their leadership often emphasizes collaboration, community engagement and inclusivity.  

Inspiring the Next Generation 

The visibility of women in politics serves as a powerful inspiration for young girls and women aspiring to leadership. Programs aimed at youth engagement and political education are helping to cultivate future female leaders, ensuring continued progress. 

Many female politicians actively mentor emerging leaders, fostering a cycle of empowerment and breaking down long-standing barriers to political participation. 

Despite their achievements, female politicians in Ontario and Canada still face disproportionate scrutiny, online abuse and systemic barriers within party structures. Yet, their perseverance and leadership continue to inspire a growing number of women to engage in public service. 

As Canada’s political sphere becomes more representative, these women and many others are proving that leadership is not bound by gender. Their stories are not just milestones but building blocks for a more inclusive political future.