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Review of Unhistoric Acts: Inside the Women’s Movement on Prince Edward Island by Dianne Porter. 

Dianne Porter is a remarkable feminist activist from P.E.I. She has been an advocate for women’s rights since the early 1970s, and has worked tirelessly since on these issues. She started her career as the first formally trained dental hygienist in P.E.I., which allowed her to travel and teach, beginning her awareness of the pressing issues faced by women. 

Her book, Unhistoric Acts, documents her journey from her days as a hygienist to the many essential roles she played in the P.E.I. feminist movement, and her life’s work to improve the lives of women everywhere. This book follows her fascinating evolution as a feminist and activist. 

As the book evolves, Porter provides readers with a comprehensive history of the P.E.I. women’s movement, intertwining personal anecdotes with broader narratives. From improvements in childcare and healthcare to her own political involvement, Porter skillfully paints a vivid picture of the struggles and triumphs that marked this influential period.

Historically and within history, women are often overlooked. This was something Porter set out to demonstrate. To accomplish this, Porter created her “Unsung Heroes” sections, in which different women she worked with whose efforts were not previously recognized, had their own, well-deserved, spotlight. Readers are able to give attention to these women, which ultimately deepens Porter’s story, as the reader has access to multiple perspectives. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and found Unhistoric Acts to be a captivating read that offered a fresh perspective on well-known historical events. Porter’s ability to provide a behind-the-scenes look at major occurrences, such as the Meech Lake Accord, revealed the previously hidden influence and impact of women. As a political science student myself, I have previously studied many of these events, so I expected to have a full grasp on the historical context and contributors; however this hidden involvement made for a very eye-opening experience. 

This book made me extremely grateful for the work that women before me had tirelessly done, in order to create the world that I live in today. Porter’s unwavering dedication to fighting for women’s rights beautifully shines, serving as a powerful testament to her commitment and resilience, which inspires me to continue working towards a future where all people are equal. 

Dianne Porter’s Unhistoric Acts is an essential addition to the literature on women’s history and the feminist movement. By shedding light on the struggles and accomplishments of the P.E.I. women’s movement with meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy, Porter challenges historical oversights and inspires readers to join the ongoing struggle for equality. This book serves as a powerful reminder that the pursuit of social justice requires continuous dedication and unwavering determination.

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