“I was the only woman.” These words appear again and again in the stories of women planners working in Canada from the 1940s to the 1970s. Despite their small numbers, women were active in the Community Planning Association of Canada and the Town Planning Institute of Canada (later called the Canadian Institute of Planners) during those years. This book tells their stories, expanding our understanding of what constitutes “planning” and who counts as “planners.” It challenges us to re-evaluate not only the profession’s past, but also its role in creating a more inclusive and equitable future.

Sue Hendler's profile page

Julia Markovich's profile page

Sue Hendler (1960–2009) was an associate professor in the School of Urban and Regional Planning at Queen’s University. Her interests included environmental philosophy and policy, social issues, and professional (planning) ethics. Her most recent work focused on feminist approaches to planning, including the historical roles of women in early Canadian planning.

Julia Markovich is a senior research associate in transportation and infrastructure policy, based in Ottawa. She was previously an assistant professor in geography and planning at the University of Toronto. Julia completed her Master of Planning at Queen’s University under the supervision of Sue Hendler.