Associational activity as a route to public office : women in Nova Scotia municipal politics

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of seven individual women who have been key players in municipal government in Nova Scotia. Through in-depth, one-on-one interviews I investigated women's participation in voluntary organizations and how these activities and social networks shape women's political actions and provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary to further engage in elected public life. This political knowledge, combined with civic skills, networks and the personal profile women gain while serving as volunteers, makes associational work an ideal training ground for elected office. A feminist analysis of public life has allowed me to explore how women's volunteer work is connected to their decision to seek public office, and the associational paths that lead women to candidacy.