Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Émilise Lessard-Therrien has resigned from her position, citing concerns for her mental health. Lessard-Therrien, who had been on leave since the end of March, expressed feeling overwhelmed and exhausted after just four months in the role. She struggled to find her place within the party, especially with the dynamics already established by her male co-spokesperson, Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois. Lessard-Therrien felt discouraged from expressing her opinions in public and ultimately refrained from speaking out on issues out of fear of being misunderstood or ignored.
Despite Lessard-Therrien’s resignation, caucus members were quick to voice their support for her decision. Québec solidaire MNA Sol Zanetti commended her bravery and acknowledged the draining nature of political fighting. Lessard-Therrien had been chosen as co-spokesperson in a leadership race last November, replacing Manon Massé. Nadeau-Dubois admitted that the transition was challenging, especially since Lessard-Therrien was no longer an MNA and could not access national assembly resources. He took responsibility for the difficulties in making the new system work and acknowledged the need to learn from the situation.
Nadeau-Dubois defended Québec solidaire’s system of having two spokespeople rather than a leader, despite recent criticisms. Former Québec solidaire MNA Catherine Dorion had raised similar concerns in a book published last fall, expressing frustration at having her voice silenced within the party. Dorion also showed her support for Lessard-Therrien’s decision to step down, seeing it as a victory for those who stand firm in their beliefs of justice. Nadeau-Dubois acknowledged the need for lessons to be learned from both Lessard-Therrien’s departure and Dorion’s concerns but expressed confidence in his caucus and voter support.
At a news conference in Granby, Nadeau-Dubois and Christine Labrie addressed the situation, emphasizing the need for a supportive and inclusive work environment within Québec solidaire. Labrie asserted that she would not remain in the party if she felt it was a toxic environment, demonstrating a commitment to prioritizing mental health and well-being. Party officials have not yet announced details about the leadership race to replace Lessard-Therrien, out of respect for her decision. Overall, the party is facing challenges in adjusting to new leadership dynamics and must address concerns about silencing voices within the organization.
In conclusion, the resignation of Québec solidaire co-spokesperson Émilise Lessard-Therrien highlights the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being in political environments. The struggles faced by Lessard-Therrien in finding her place within the party and feeling unable to express her opinions openly reflect broader issues of inclusivity and support within political organizations. The response from caucus members and other party leaders shows a commitment to addressing these challenges and creating a more supportive and healthy work environment. Lessons must be learned from this situation to ensure that all voices are heard and respected within Québec solidaire and similar political parties.
