For several years the Council has supported International Women’s Day by providing small grants to groups who wish to organise events in local areas. The formula has been very successful with up to 40 events taking place each year. The Council will be funding local events again in 2007. The closing date for applications for 2005 was 31 December 2006.
International Women's Day - 8 March 2007
Where it all started
On 8 March 1857, a group of women textile workers marched through New York demanding better wages and improved conditions. The demonstration ended in violent struggles and many women were arrested. On 8 March 1908, thousands of American women organised a march to commemorate the event and to demand a right to vote and an end to sweat-shops and child labour.
The day was first celebrated in Europe in 1911, after Clara Zetkin, a German socialist leader, called for 8 March to be recognised throughout the world as International Women’s Day. It was first celebrated in Britain in 1926, the year of the general strike, and in Australia in 1928. Interest declined world-wide after the 1940s, but was revived in Britain with the feminist movement of the 1970s when mass women’s demonstrations began.
In 1977, 8 March was officially recognised by the United Nations as International Women’s Day and it is now celebrated in a variety of ways throughout the world.
Celebrating in Glasgow
International Women’s Day is a day when women can reflect on past achievements, or continue to campaign for further advancement in equality. Previous celebrations in Glasgow have been in many forms. Last year, a total of 35 events took place across the City, some for small groups of women and others involved over 100 women in local areas. Discussion groups on a range of issues, open days, activities to learn new skills, practical workshops on issues which inform or empower women or particular groups of women are examples of the type of events which have been organised in previous years. To view the programme of events planned for 2007 access the attachement below.
If you require further information please use the e-mail address/telephone numbers below:
E-mail: corporatevaw@drs.glasgow.gov.uk
Phone: 0141 287 8240/8274