Back on November 25th, marking the start of the 16 Days of Activism, Tonia had the incredible opportunity to host a powerful conversation as part of a funded project with Ipswich Museums. This discussion centred around women in activism, exploring their contributions, challenges, and the ongoing work needed to ensure gender equity. As the world moves towards International Women’s Day, this conversation continues to inspire reflection and the importance of continuing to platform these stories.
International Women’s Day: A Celebration & A Call to Action
International Women’s Day is a phenomenal occasion, a time to celebrate the achievements of women and advocate for gender equality. Progress is being made, whether in legislation aimed at supporting women and girls, initiatives like Safer Streets, or broader conversations about equity, but challenges remain. Funding for charities and essential support services is under threat, and many barriers to true representation still exist.
Recognising Black and Brown Women in Activism
While celebrating International Women’s Day, it is crucial that we also acknowledge and frame the journeys of Black and Brown women who have been at the forefront of activism for generations. Their work has been pivotal in securing rights for women and girls, yet their contributions are often overlooked in mainstream narratives.
Some key figures from history include:
Olive Morris – A fearless activist who fought for Black rights, housing justice, and women’s liberation in Britain during the 1970s.
Doreen Lawrence – A campaigner for racial justice following the tragic murder of her son, Stephen Lawrence, leading to significant changes in policing and race relations in the UK.
Jayaben Desai – A leader in the Grunwick Strike (1976-1978), advocating for fair working conditions for immigrant women workers in the UK.
Beyond historical figures, there are many local women making an impact today. From grassroots organisations tackling social justice issues to those creating safe spaces for marginalised communities, Black and Brown women continue to lead the way in fostering change.
Equity in Leadership & Representation
As we reflect on activism and progress, it is also important to acknowledge where representation is still lacking. Black and Brown women, as well as men, are still underrepresented in leadership roles across various sectors, from politics to business. Similarly, within LGBTQIA+ spaces, the voices of queer Black and Brown women are often not as visible as they should be. Achieving equity requires intentional efforts to uplift and support those who have historically been sidelined.
Keeping the Conversation Going
Honouring the activism of Black and Brown women is not just about history, it is about keeping the momentum going. Reframing the narrative means ensuring that their contributions are recognised, their stories are told, and their impact is celebrated. As we move forward into another year of activism and advocacy, it is crucial to commit to:
Celebrating achievements – Uplifting the work of women who have made and continue to make a difference.
Creating space for voices that need to be heard – Ensuring more diverse representation in leadership and activism.
Keeping the conversation alive – Using platforms to share and amplify the contributions of Black and Brown women.
Join the Conversation
As we approach International Women’s Day, it is important to take the time to honour those who have paved the way and support those who continue to fight for equality. Who are the women, past or present, who inspire you? Share your thoughts and reflections with us, and let’s continue working towards a future where all women are seen, heard, and valued.
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