Council official who went viral online to talk at event
THE woman who became an internet sensation for her trenchant handling of dissent in the ranks at a meeting of Handforth Parish Council is coming to Guernsey to speak at a public event organised by Women in Public Life.
Jackie Weaver became a national treasure when she muted rude and boorish behaviour from some of the parish councillors, and effectively kicked some of them out of the online meeting.
The Zoom meeting has been viewed by millions online, and it is women in particular who have empathised with Mrs Weaver’s frustration as the men attempted to talk over her.
The event at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts is called You do have the authority! An evening with Jackie Weaver.
Shelaine Green, the chairwoman of Women in Public Life, will be interviewing Mrs Weaver about her life, the meeting, and her advice to women.
Ms Green said they were thrilled that the Handforth stalwart had accepted the invitation to come to Guernsey.
‘We can’t wait to find out more about the woman behind the Zoom screen,’ she said. ‘We’re looking forward to her “plain old common sense” advice, including how to assert yourself in the workplace and how to take charge of your life.
‘Jackie is keen to encourage everyone to get involved in local democracy, at whatever level suits them, and we’re sure her considerable experience and wit will help to inspire more Guernsey women to stand as douzeniers, jurats, deputies and tribunal members.'
Mrs Weaver, who has been a dedicated champion of local government for decades, will also speak to a panel of women who currently hold public office roles in Guernsey to understand the quirks of the island’s unique system of douzeniers and deputies.
The event is at 7pm on Wednesday 15 September. Tickets are available at Eventbrite.com or womeninpubliclife.gg.
