Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer, a trailblazing figure in Swiss politics and one of the first women to serve in the National Council, has passed away. She died on October 11, shortly before her 82nd birthday. Her passing marks the end of an era for a politician who dedicated her life to equality and social justice, leaving a significant legacy in Switzerland's democratic landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer, one of Switzerland's first female National Councillors, died at age 81.
- She was a pioneering voice for women's suffrage and gender equality in Swiss politics.
- Sahlfeld-Singer served from 1971 to 1975, representing St. Gallen for the Social Democratic Party.
- Her entry into parliament came shortly after women gained federal voting rights in Switzerland.
- She was known for her commitment to human rights and fighting poverty.
A Champion for Equality in Swiss Politics
Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer, a former Social Democratic Party (SP) National Councillor from St. Gallen, passed away on October 11, as announced in an obituary in the «St. Galler Tagblatt.» She would have turned 82 on the upcoming Friday. Her death is a significant loss for Swiss politics, where she was known as a fierce advocate for human rights, social justice, and the fight against poverty.
Sahlfeld-Singer made history by becoming the first female SP National Councillor from St. Gallen. She served in this role from 1971 to 1975. This period was crucial for women's rights in Switzerland, as women had only recently gained federal voting rights shortly before her election. Her presence in the Bundeshaus symbolized a new chapter for Swiss democracy.
Historical Context: Women's Suffrage in Switzerland
Switzerland granted women the right to vote at the federal level on February 7, 1971. This made Switzerland one of the last Western democracies to do so. Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer's election later that year highlighted the immediate impact of this historic change.
Breaking Barriers in Bern
Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer was one of the first eleven women to enter the National Council. Her entry into the federal parliament on December 14, 1971, was met with a notable anecdote. She recounted in a 2021 SRF interview that a doorman at the Bundeshaus informed her no tours were taking place that day. She replied that she was there for her swearing-in, underscoring the novelty of women in parliament.
Her colleagues and party members remember her as a pioneer. The St. Gallen SP and SP Women sections stated in her obituary:
"She remains in our good memory as a trailblazer for equality and as a fighter for human rights, against poverty, and for social justice."This quote highlights her enduring impact and the values she championed throughout her career.
The First Eleven National Councillors
Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer was part of a historic group. The first eleven women elected to the National Council after women gained federal voting rights were:
- Elisabeth Blunschy (CVP, SZ)
- Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer (SP, SG)
- Lise Girardin (FDP, GE) - also the first woman in the Council of States
- Tilo Frey (FDP, NE)
- Gabrielle Nanchen (SP, VS)
- Hedi Lang (SP, ZH)
- Josi Meier (CVP, LU)
- Agnes Leu (CVP, ZG)
- Martha Ribi (FDP, ZH)
- Emilie Lieberherr (SP, ZH)
- Marguerite Spoerri (LdU, BE)
These women collectively paved the way for future generations of female politicians in Switzerland.
Life as a Theologian and Pastor
Beyond her political career, Sahlfeld-Singer was a theologian and pastor. She served in Altstätten, St. Gallen. Her professional background presented unique challenges during her time in parliament. At that time, a constitutional article prohibited clergy from holding parliamentary office.
To comply with this rule, she notably renounced her pastoral salary, as reported by the Reformed news portal ref.ch. This decision underscored her commitment to public service and her dedication to upholding the legal framework, even when it meant personal sacrifice. Her life reflected a deep sense of duty, both spiritual and civic.
Later Life and Legacy
After her political term and pastoral work in Switzerland, Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer and her family moved to Germany. There, she and her husband continued their work as school pastors. This move marked another chapter in a life devoted to education and community service.
Her legacy in Switzerland, however, remained strong. In March 2019, the National Council Hall unveiled commemorative plaques honoring the first eleven female National Councillors. A similar plaque was placed in the Council of States Hall for Lise Girardin, the first woman in that chamber. These plaques serve as a permanent reminder of their groundbreaking contributions.
During the International Women's Day celebration, then-National Council President Marina Carobbio praised Sahlfeld-Singer and her peers. Carobbio acknowledged their efforts in paving the way for future generations of women in Swiss politics. This recognition highlights the lasting impact these pioneers had on the nation's political landscape.
Commemorative Plaques
- March 2019: Plaques unveiled in the National Council Hall for the first eleven female National Councillors.
- Purpose: To honor their pioneering role and contributions to Swiss democracy.
Hanna Sahlfeld-Singer passed away on October 11 in the Hannover region of Germany. Her burial will also take place there. Her life story is a testament to perseverance, a commitment to justice, and a pioneering spirit that helped shape modern Switzerland. She will be remembered as a key figure in the struggle for gender equality and social progress.