Muriel McQueen Fergusson, Canadian lawyer and politician, Canadian Speaker of the Senate (b. 1899)

Muriel McQueen Fergusson, a formidable Canadian figure born on May 26, 1899, and passing away on April 11, 1997, left an indelible mark as an activist, judge, and politician. Her trailblazing career culminated in her service in the Senate of Canada, where she achieved the historic distinction of becoming the first woman Speaker of the Senate. Throughout her life, Fergusson was widely recognized for her steadfast and prolonged advocacy on behalf of the less privileged, with a particular focus on advancing the rights and opportunities for women.

Early Life and Formative Years

Born in the picturesque community of Shediac, New Brunswick, Muriel McQueen Fergusson embarked on her academic journey, ultimately graduating from Mount Allison University in 1921 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. This early educational foundation set the stage for her future endeavors. In 1926, after a brief but promising year practicing law in the office of her barrister father, James McQueen, she made the common decision for women of her era to retire from her professional career to marry Aubrey S. Fergusson. They settled in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, for a decade, during which time Muriel channelled her energy into community engagement. She not only opened the Malabeam Tea Room, a local social hub, but also actively organized various community activities, including the founding of the Grand Falls Literary Club, fostering intellectual and social connections within her new home.

However, life took an unforeseen turn when her husband fell ill due to injuries sustained during his service in the First World War. This compelled Muriel to return to her legal profession in 1936 to support her family, a testament to her resilience and determination. Tragically, Aubrey passed away six years later. Demonstrating immense strength, Muriel gradually took over her late husband's law practice. Her dedication and legal acumen quickly became apparent, leading to her pioneering appointment as New Brunswick's first female judge of a probate court. Her legal responsibilities expanded further as she became the clerk of both the county and circuit courts, and served as the town solicitor for Grand Falls, cementing her status as a respected and influential figure in the provincial legal landscape.

A Pioneer in Law and Local Politics

Muriel McQueen Fergusson was a fervent advocate for increased participation of women in the political arena, recognizing its crucial role in societal progress. Her commitment bore significant fruit in 1946 when she successfully spearheaded a petition that secured the right for all women in New Brunswick to vote in municipal elections, a vital step towards full suffrage. Undeterred, she soon after challenged the existing ban on women running for Fredericton City Council. When no other women stepped forward to seize this newly opened opportunity, Fergusson herself ran for Alderman and, in a powerful display of community trust, won by acclamation in both 1950 and 1951. This marked her as the first woman ever elected to the Fredericton City Council, and she continued to break barriers by becoming the city's first female Deputy Mayor in 1953.

Championing Social Justice and Equality

Beyond her direct involvement in politics and law, Fergusson tirelessly championed social justice, focusing particularly on pay equity and the protection of women's and children's rights. She was a regular and compelling speaker at women's group events, addressing critical topics such as fair wages and the complexities of wills, empowering women with knowledge and advocating for their financial well-being. A notable achievement in her fight for equality was her successful campaign to expand a proposed $100 per year pay raise for all male city employees to include female employees as well, up from the initially suggested $50 per year for females. This victory underscored her commitment to equal pay for equal work. Furthermore, with the robust support of letter-writing campaigns organized by various women's groups, she secured an appointment as the Director of Family Allowances, a significant position that had historically been restricted solely to men. Her lifelong dedication to public service extended to extensive volunteer work with numerous organizations, including the Girl Guides of Canada and various other charitable causes specifically dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of girls and women, reflecting her profound commitment to future generations.

A National Voice: The Senate of Canada

Muriel McQueen Fergusson's remarkable career reached its zenith with her appointment to the Senate of Canada in 1953, where she continued to serve with distinction. Her leadership qualities and parliamentary expertise were further recognized in 1972 when she was appointed as the first woman Speaker of the Senate, a role she performed with grace and authority until 1974. As Speaker, she presided over the proceedings of Canada's upper chamber, ensuring decorum and facilitating legislative debate, further solidifying her legacy as a national leader. She retired from the Senate in 1975, concluding a distinguished career of public service.

Legacy and Recognition

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to Canadian society, Muriel McQueen Fergusson received several prestigious honors. In 1974, she was sworn into the Privy Council, an advisory body to the Queen's representative in Canada, signifying her counsel to the highest levels of government. Two years later, in 1976, she was further distinguished as an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the nation's highest civilian honors, celebrating her lifelong dedication to justice, equality, and public service. Muriel McQueen Fergusson's life is a testament to the power of perseverance and unwavering advocacy, leaving behind a legacy of progress and a clear path for future generations of women in leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What were Muriel McQueen Fergusson's most significant achievements?
Muriel McQueen Fergusson's most significant achievements include being the first woman Speaker of the Senate of Canada, the first female judge of a probate court in New Brunswick, the first woman elected to Fredericton City Council, and the first woman Deputy Mayor of Fredericton. She also successfully campaigned for women's municipal voting rights in New Brunswick and fought for pay equity and the rights of women and children.
How did Muriel McQueen Fergusson contribute to women's rights?
She was a tireless advocate for women's rights, securing the right for all New Brunswick women to vote in municipal elections, challenging bans on women running for city council, and fighting for pay equity. She also broke gender barriers in law and politics, opening doors for future generations of women.
When did she serve as the Speaker of the Senate?
Muriel McQueen Fergusson served as the first woman Speaker of the Senate of Canada from 1972 to 1974.
What honors did Muriel McQueen Fergusson receive?
In recognition of her extensive service and contributions, she was sworn into the Privy Council in 1974 and appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1976.
Where was Muriel McQueen Fergusson born?
She was born in Shediac, New Brunswick, Canada.