Steinbach MLA Kelvin Goertzen this week presented a special medallion to Steinbach city councillor Susan Penner. Goertzen says the medallion was developed by the Manitoba Legislature to mark the 100th anniversary of women getting the right to vote and to participate in politics.

"It's a special time to remember that this is a special right that had to be fought for, that it wasn't some easy right. I think it's important that we recognize the contribution that women politicians make in the Province of Manitoba and Canada."

Councillor Penner appreciates what the medallion represents.

"The right to be involved in politics is something I've always taken for granted so this is a good reminder that it hasn't always been this way and I need to appreciate the trailblazers who went before me to make this possible."

Goertzen says he will also present the medallion to councillor Cari Penner who was out of town this week. He adds, while it's important to recognize the progress that has been made in the rights of women, there is room for more improvement.

"Women are still underrepresented in the Legislature and in Parliament and many other places of political office. So we want to ensure that we recognize that it's an important milestone but there are other milestones to be achieved as well."