Trudeau taking some heat for ladies-night event

Liberal leader Justin Trudeau is taking some heat for an event catered to women called “Justin Unplugged.”

“Ladies, please join us for Cocktails, Candid Conversation, Curiosity-Inducing ideas,” says a poster for the event, which features Trudeau’s face in Warhol-esque style.

“Ladies, you’re invited to (really) get to know the future prime minister.” It also poses the questions “What’s your favourite virtue?,” “What is the biggest issue facing women?” and “Who are your real-life heroes?”

The $250 event takes place at The Burroughs Building in Toronto’s west end at 7 p.m. Thursday. A volunteer for the event said it is primarily focused on women but men can also attend.

A spokeswoman for Trudeau did not immediately respond to request for comment.

The women-centered event elicited some strong reaction on Twitter.

NDP MP Megan Leslie also blogged about the event on Facebook: “This isn’t just demeaning, it’s stupid.”

Amanda Alvara, one of 20 professional women who organized the event, said in a statement it was intended to reach women who aren’t always engaged in political dialogue.

“The intent was not to offend anybody. In fact, the invite and the event have received positive responses since it’s distribution over a month ago,” she said.