Dominick Desjardins - Thesis Defence
BEYOND THE MARGINS: UNVEILING THE CONTEMPORARY LANDSCAPE OF HISTORICALLY MARGINALIZED GROUPS AND PROTECTED RIDINGS WITHIN NOVA SCOTIA’S POLITICAL PARTIES
MA Political Science Candidate: Dominick Desjardins
07 March 2025
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Meeting ID: 249 307 144 067
Passcode: xN7hm3s7
1:00 PM Atlantic
Thesis Committee:
Dr. Erin Crandall, Supervisor
Dr. Jim Bickerton, StFX, External Examiner
Dr. Alex Marland, Internal Examiner
Dr. Zoe Panchen, Chair of the defence
Abstract
The thesis explores the underrepresentation of historically marginalized groups, such as African Nova Scotians, other racialized groups, and members of the LGBTQ+ community within Nova Scotia’s political landscape. With a focus on the province’s unique use of protected ridings, better political representation for underrepresented groups appears possible. Drawing from interview and survey data from political candidates from marginalized communities who ran in Nova Scotia elections from 2000 to 2023, the research highlights systemic barriers to political participation and representation. It examines the development, effectiveness, and criticisms of protected ridings while exploring how political parties recruit diverse candidates. The study concludes that while protected ridings have helped increase representation, significant challenges remain, such as racial biases in candidate selection and insufficient support for marginalized candidates. The thesis provides recommendations for further research and policy reforms aimed at fostering greater inclusivity in Nova Scotia’s political system.
About Dominick…
Originally from Rothsay, New Brunswick, Dominick Desjardins is a seasoned political organizer and strategist passionate about inclusivity within institutions and healthcare. A Saint Mary's University graduate in Halifax, Nova Scotia (2016), He was appointed Executive Assistant to the Minister of Business and Trade during the COVID-19 pandemic. This experience ignited his interest in public policy, leading him to specialize in healthcare workforce recruitment and inclusive healthcare policy. Dom currently resides in Prince Edward Island, where he dedicates himself to improving the province's healthcare system through strategic planning and recruitment initiatives. His deep understanding of government, coupled with his commitment to healthcare, has allowed him to engage in the national healthcare sector as a board member of the Canadian Association of Physician Recruiters and work with the American Association of Professional Health Workforce Recruiters.
Dominick’s research focuses on the use of protected ridings in Nova Scotia, their effectiveness, and the need to foster a more representative candidate slate that promotes the representation of historically underrepresented groups.