January 28: Nellie's Mock Parliament; Monarchs are champs.

January 28, 1914 - The Political Equality League stages a mock parliament at the Walker Theatre. Women played the roles of politicians, with Nellie McClung as premier, debating whether or not men should get the vote. (Also, CBC Archives, How Canadian Newspaperwomen won the vote.)

Jan. 28, 1914, Manitoba Free Press

In one scene, a delegation of men present their right to vote to the 'Premier' to which she replied:

"We like delegations. We have seen a great many, and we pride ourselves on treating these delegations with the greatest courtesy and candor. We assure you that we are just as pleased to see you today as we shall be to see you at any future day. We wish to compliment this delegation on their splendid gentlemanly appearance. If without exercising the vote, such splendid specimens of manhood can be produced, such a system of affairs should not be interfered with."

Manitoba Free Press, January 29, 1914 (headline and quote)

The night, which also included musical entertainment and comedy skits, was well received and brought with it national media coverage. (To read a review.)

Two years later, on January 27, 1914, the Manitoba Legislature unanimously passed a bill to allow women* the right to vote and hold office in the province - a first in Canada. (*Aboriginals and some immigrant women need not apply. It wasn’t until May 1918 that national suffrage was achieved.)

January 28, 1935 - The 1935 Winnipeg Monarchs win the world amateur hockey championship in Switzerland. The team is in the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.