‘Stop the World, Scotland wants to get on’ – Reflections from a Career Driving forward change for Women in Scotland

Abstract

Since being elected as an MSP in 2007, I have always tried to use the platform that comes as a politician to promote and help drive forward the work of others – particularly those working to tackle inequality and promote social justice. What inspired me personally to get involved in politics was an innate understanding that for women in politics, particularly working-class women in politics, we were simply not represented in a meaningful way. This piece charts my early days getting involved in politics in Scotland, reflecting on some of my most challenging personal experiences, as well some of the political achievements in which I have most pride. While women have contributed to modern Scotland in ways that we never fully celebrate, we need more women in the corridors of power to ensure that the voices of women are never overlooked again.