Jan Logie is likely not a name you know of. She is a Member of Parliament in New Zealand. She was recently elected a few months ago, and on the 15th of February, she gave her maiden speech to the House of Representatives, the sole chamber in New Zealand.
She would inspire so many liberals in the US.
What struck me wasn't necessarily her speech, which... by the way, was amazing. But I was struck at how the crowd (Members of Parliament btw, many in opposing parties) all stood and cheered for her. Such... civility... I just wish we had more of it.
But the Speech... oh the Speech, it was Amazing. Here are some bits I absolutely loved.
I stand here today as a lefty, feminist, lesbian who sometimes despairs about what we're doing to each other and our planet. I stand here as an ordinary Pākehā [Maori term meaning "White"] New Zealander. I stand here knowing how much better things could be if we did things differently.
First, as a gay man, to have someone openly say that... they are a lefty, and a feminist... AND a lesbian?!?!?! Seriously, this woman wouldn't even be allowed a petition to be placed on the ballot... and it is a shame.
Another.
These young people were already on the margins, out of school, out of work, and they believed it was their own fault they were in this position. They believed individual responsibility was all. But, rather than the myth spurring them into action, it put their lives at risk and significantly increased their chances of remaining unemployed. All their charisma, energy and ideas were left floating in the ether of individualism and self-blame.
I don't think I could comment on that in a way to make it better.
The entire speech is here and the full video is here:
Please note the wonderful reaction throughout the speech.
We could use more people like her in government, I just wish there was a way.