Events honour centenary of women’s right to vote, ‘an incredible milestone’

A HOST of events have been announced across Yorkshire to mark the centenary of women first getting the right to vote.

This year marks 100 years since Parliament passed a law which allowed some women, and all men, to vote for the first time.

In Leeds, the A Woman’s Place? exhibition opens at Kirkstall’s Abbey House Museum this weekend. As well as celebrating the milestone democratic moment, it will honour some of the region’s feminist trailblazers alongside the quiet heroism of ordinary women. Women being spotlighted include Leeds Suffragette Leonora Cohen, who became a famously passionate and militant campaigner in the early 20th century. Also being honoured are 1940s all-female jazz band leader Ivy Benson, cycling champion Beryl Burton, another suffragette Mary Gawthorpe and Edith Pechey, one of the country’s first female doctors.

Meanwhile in York, a new play. Everything is Possible – The York

Suffragettes, featuring a huge cast of 150, will be performed from June 20 to July 1.

Set in 1913, it chronicles a brewing revolution through the story of an ordinary Heworth housewife who risks her life and her family to join the fight. The performance will start outdoors before moving onto the stage at York Theatre Royal.

In Bradford, a special events will take place on Tuesday, February 6 at City Hall to kickstart a year of celebrations.

Coun Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “It is so important that we come together to mark this incredible milestone in our democracy. We must celebrate and remember the individuals that helped to make this happen.

“In Bradford women are well represented in political life but this has only been possible because of those who went before and broke down the barriers that existed. This year gives us the opportunity to reflect on the changes and also a chance to inspire and educate a whole new generation.”

Parliament has also launched its own centenary celebrations, with the Vote 100campaign, which will include a major exhibition, talks and tours. Follow #Vote100 on Twitter to keep up to date.

This year gives us the opportunity to reflect on the changes. Coun Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, on the planned events.

PICTURES: BRUCE ROLLINSON. IF THE SHOE FITS: Curator Kitty Ross with a Vivienne Westwood shoe in the fashion area of the A Woman’s Place? exhibition at Abbey House Museum which honours the Suffragette movement including Leeds woman Leonora Cohen.