This past week controversy arose following the use of Premier Rachel Notley’s photo as a target for a golf tournament, instigated by Ernest Bothi, president of the Brooks Big Country Oilmen’s Association. The oilmen’s golf tournament was a private event, however, a photo taken of the Notley target quickly became viral on Twitter.
The image created intense backlash, with many noting the misogyny female politicians have faced this week, as the incident follows the death of British MP Jo Cox. Bothi claimed he had no knowledge of the recent murder of Cox and in light of her death, lamented his bad timing. He continued, “If I offended anybody I apologize, that was never my goal.”
Bothi then went on to add he apologizes to Notley “the person,” however, not Notley “the politician.” He feels her policies are not congruent with the needs of the oil industry, particularly her decision in regards to the carbon tax.
While I can appreciate the odd joke – which was Bothi’s original intent – this incident speaks to a slightly larger issue than bad timing. This display not only perpetuates the misogyny and sexism present in both the oil industry and the political world, but represents a level of entitlement amongst the industry in Alberta. While the struggles of those in the industry are real and valid, several other industries suffered under right-wing governments, and yet the violence and hatred seems to have increased towards those in the left.
To disagree with the policy of a politician is one thing – there are several people who would agree with Bothi’s political stance; however, to make a statement so personal and violent ultimately perpetuates the violence and hatred towards women in positions of political power.
St. Albert MLA Marie Renaud said in a statement to CBC: “I think all of us are sort of reeling with all the violence that we’ve seen, Orlando, to see the MP murdered in her constituency. You think you would be finding more ways to demonstrate solidarity and peace … Having a target of a woman, that’s not how you do it.”
Being a student in political science, I enjoy and encourage political debate, however, to make a target of a woman is not a constructive or respectful way of creating political discussion. Bothi claimed he “wanted Notley to listen.” Unfortunately, the use of violence to attain the attention of a woman is far too common of a notion.
Violence and misogyny begins with seemingly innocent jokes and escalates, resulting in serious threats and in some cases – as with Jo Cox – death. For women everywhere, not just those in politics, this is not simply a political discussion. This is our lives at stake.
Jennifer Hamilton is a local student and writer.
