4 – 12 March 2023
Life is especially difficult for many, many people just now. All the more reason to come along to events during York International Women’s Week which this year runs from 4th to 12th March. Its theme ‘Solidarity’ reflects the importance of getting together from all walks of life! With 30+ events happening around the city or online, almost all free, there’s lots to choose from. Some need to be booked in advance; others you can just turn up to.
There’s the opportunity to join in swapping clothes, having fun with crafts, making eco-friendly feminine hygiene kits, challenging ourselves through art and performance, listening to thoughtful lectures, watching women’s films or discussing vital issues and much more.
The YIWW2023 programme offers points of view from around the world. Activities include two events focussing on women’s roles in the current Iranian revolution and talks about feminism and inter-cultural connections and on global experiences of giving birth.
There are also events about women closer to home. York Factory Women tells of the experiences of women working in the Rowntree’s factory, Women in the Theatre Royal focuses on what makes York theatre women empowered, Remembering Libertas! looks back over the heady years of York’s Lesbian Arts Festival, and local Women in Action discuss experiences of activism now.
As part of YIWW2023, Kyra invites you to visit them to help mark their 10th anniversary and celebrate women’s lives and achievements. Elsewhere, there’s a pop-up dance floor exploring ways to make nights-out safe, and many workshops: try making zines, recycled bags, or a ‘solidarity banner’; or sharing your thoughts about what ‘Home’ means to you.
The coordinating group want as many people as possible to take part so if you need any practical, IT or financial assistance, get in touch with them. They have specific funds to support access, and a dedicated technology-support person.
Whilst much has been achieved since the proposal of an annual ‘Women’s Day’ at a conference of working women in 1910, there is still considerable work to be done every day of every year in every part of the world.
York International Women’s Week is a community event pulled together by local women volunteers – and they’re always on the lookout for new members!
The full programme of talks, music, workshops, and other events can be downloaded from www.yorkwomen.org.uk and printed programmes are also available around the city or by phoning 01904 702060 or emailing yorkwomensvoices@gmail.com.