International Women's Day 2010

The very first International Women’s Day event was celebrated in 1911 and this year we didn’t want to let anyone down!
On 16th March over 150 women attended from around the city to celebrate with us. To highlight the positive contributions and achievements of many women in and around the local area which of course there is no shortage of.

Celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women we profiled 10 women from a spectrum of backgrounds- including politics, policing and neighbourhood management. Each woman successful in her own way and yet what they all had in common was self belief and determination that allowed them to live out their dreams.

The entire day was purposely built to inspire, encourage and uplift each and everyone by hearing of others who have overcome social, economic and cultural barriers to pursue their goals. Not only did we have an inspirational line up of presentations but we were also joined by various organisations offering advice and guidance on training and routes to work.

Participants also took up the opportunity to discuss issues and concerns in workshops where they explored and discussed the many barriers this economic climate has faced us with.

To end the morning a roaming microphone allowed everyone to participate in the panel discussion and for the presenters to answer some burning questions and share more of their personal stories.

If that wasn’t enough after a hot lunch, two remarkably talented artists provided entertainment. Urja Desi Thakore performed ‘Hats’. A dance based around the different roles women act out in their daily life.
The day came to a cheerful end with story telling and performance poetry, which included the sound of live dolkhi (double-headed hand-drum) performed by Parminder Chadha.

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future.2011 will see 100 years of International Women’s Day having been celebrated around the world. Widespread increased activity is anticipated globally on 8 March 2011 honoring 100 years of International Women’s Day.

We only hope to make next year’s event even BIGGER and BRIGHTER!

The event was organised by Including Women! Balsall Heath Children’s Center, West Midlands Police and Saheli Women’s Group.

Including Women! would like to thank all partners, volunteers and staff who supported the event.

In this section

• Findings From IWD Workshops