There is an interesting intersection between racism and sexism when you are a woman from a minority background. I would have to say that my confidence probably came from the fact that I went to 11 schools in 13 years. That was pretty tough, being a minority growing up in Yellowknife or Saskatoon or Vancouver. You get a thick skin, which is unfortunate. I don't think any person—or child—should have to be subjected to that.
It also comes from being educated. The fact is that when you know that you have convictions and principles, you're going to say what needs to be said, irrespective of the death threats—absolutely—or of the mistreatment and abuse you get subjected to. You know the truth, and someone has to say it.
However, it's not only at our personal cost—it's a cost to our families. My family gets subjected to abuse—it's out of bounds—facilitated by both the media and social media. I think we need to control that a lot better, because it's not acceptable. I could tell you about the abuse that I've been subjected to in this term alone. I know for a fact that there are women who would have run but won't run now, because they've seen. Why would you put yourself or your family through it?