Kate the Great or Middleton the Mute?

I'm disturbed about something. I hadn't given it too much thought until the November issue of Chatelaine magazine landed on my doorstep.

As soon as the magazine arrived I flipped to the article on “Women of the Year.” I had heard about these awards beforehand - the judging panel was crazy-impressive, and I couldn't wait to see which Canadian women were honoured. I was not disappointed: there were rags-to-riches stories, stories of innovators, survivors and do-gooders. Truly an inspirational collection of amazing women.

And then I turned the page to read the next article – a feature on Kate Middleton who is declared "the most talked about woman in 2011." The article focussed on Kate’s wild popularity and chronicled her fashion choices. Much mention was made of her sparkling smile and how many magazine covers her face has graced.

And please, like the rest of you, I was a fan of “Catherine the Great.” I watched "The Wedding." I thought she looked like a true princess. I said to myself, "She's so beautiful! She's so skinny!" And like Prince William, I fell in love with her too.

But here's the thing I realized in reading the Chatelaine article: Kate Middleton doesn't speak. Kate has never publicly uttered a word.

So doesn’t that freak you out?! In 2011, one of the world’s most popular women – someone who is adored, a role model – is someone we have never heard speak? I mean, I’m happy to give Kate the benefit of the doubt. I’m sure she’s lovely. But what are her opinions? What does she think about her new role in the monarchy? How will she use her power? I know she’s got a penchant for skinny jeans and ballet flats, but that’s about it.

Princess Di, also adored the world over, also didn’t speak at the outset. During the first four years of her marriage, she publicly spoke about 500 words (or, the length of this blog post). She later grew into the role of advocate – for AIDS and land mine victims – but that wasn’t until her marriage had dissolved. She seemed to have to get out from under the royal shadow before she found her own voice.

Look, I get it: Diana was beautiful – the People’s Princess. Kate is beautiful – the Queen of Style.

But to have Kate’s face on the cover of a magazine that featured such amazing, accomplished Canadian women? Totally disappointing. I would rather read about the Canadian entrepreneurs, heroes, mavericks and game changers that Chatelaine profiled any day of the week.

What does this say of us in 2011, that we, as women have a hero who has never spoken?

"