An expert in inclusive politics asserts that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s recent move to enhance diversity within his cabinet may not yield significant results unless it transcends superficial representation. Trudeau’s July cabinet expansion included seven new members, notably the first Filipina Canadian woman MP and the first Sri Lankan Tamil to hold a cabinet position.
Trudeau emphasized that the revamped cabinet mirrors Canada’s diverse population and introduces fresh perspectives, skills, and experiences to the decision-making process. This initiative was perceived by many as an attempt by the Liberal Party to consolidate support in closely contested electoral districts and among specific ethnic communities.
However, the Canada Research Chair specializing in gender, race, and inclusive politics at Carleton University in Ottawa, Erin Tolley, highlights that mere representation within the cabinet is just one aspect of genuine inclusion. Tolley emphasizes that diversity should also be evident in policy-making, as without this essential component, the impact on racialized communities during election time, both among voters and ministers themselves, could remain limited.