Mhairi in salute to women who fought so hard for their rights
Youngest MP celebrates victory for gender equality
One of Renfrewshire’s most influential politicians is marking 100 years since women in the UK were granted the right to vote.
Mhairi Black MP is backing a year-long programme of events organised by the UK Parliament to mark 100 years since the 1918 Representation of the People Act, meaning all men and some women could vote for the first time in history.
Mhairi, who became a Member of Parliament in 2015 at the age of 21, said:“The act was a vital step forwards for gender equality, and the centenary of the act is an incredibly important opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come, thanks to the extreme bravery and sacrifice of the women who fought – and in some cases died – for equality.
“We all know that there is lots more to do, we still have absurd inequalities that plague our society such as the gender pay gap, the rape clause, violence against women, maternity discrimination and the tampon tax.
“I look forward to working with people across Renfrewshire to ensure we create an even more equal society and combat inequality for women.”
Changes in attitudes to voting started before 1918 through the Suffragettes movement, which included demonstrations for equal voting rights.
More than 1,000 women were arrested and many jailed during the battle for equality, with buildings in Scotland being burned down, golf courses attacked with acid, rallies taking place and women being force force- fed if they went on a hunger strike . The aim was to force the hand of landowners, influential business people and insurance firms to put pressure on the government to give women the vote.
The Vote 100 programme includes a wide range of events and activities commemorating the women and men who fought to achieve electoral equality.
Film releases, exhibitions, talks and tours are on the cards to raise awareness of the suffrage movement who used extreme protest methods such as hunger strikes to fight for gender equality.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon also marked the occasion by tweeting a photograph of the seat of the Scottish Government.
Her post read: “This was once the site of Calton Jail where many Suffragettes were imprisoned.
“Today, it is the seat of @ScotGov and the Suffragette flag is flying high. Thank you to all the women who fought for our right to vote - and enabled a woman to occupy the office of FM.”
Schools and community groups in Renfrewshire South are encouraged to join in with the Vote 100 programme by debating and celebrating the important anniversary. Mhairi is encouraging as many local groups in the region to mark the occasion .
She added: “There are countless opportunities for schools and community groups across Renfrewshire to get involved. “This is a key anniversary. “Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you would like to be involved.” ● If your school or community organisation is interested in the Vote 100 programme of events email Mhairi at mhairi.black.mp@ parliament.uk