History in spotlight at Walk for Women
MANCHESTER – a city with a proud history of equality and suffrage – put on a show of strength to celebrate its strong women.
The ‘Walk for Women’ event marked International Women’s Day 2018.
This year marks 100 years since the first women won the right to vote, and the council invited organisations, community groups, bands, friends - and anyone else with a connection to the city - to take part in the walk.
Starting on St Peter’s Square, the procession made its way to Castlefield Bowl, where a succession of strong Manchester women took to the stage.
Singer Claire Mooney opened the event, alongside author, poet and storyteller Aisha Mirza.
Stand-up comedian and performer Jackie Hagan’s performance was one of the many highlights as a whole host of women took the opportunity to have their voices heard.
Coun Sarah Judge, lead member for women at Manchester council and chair of the International Women’s Day Steering Group, said: “We want to celebrate women, and what they have achieved in the last 100 years – 2018 is a year in which we can reflect on achievements, but also look forward to where we still need to go to achieve true equality.
“We wanted to mark this poignant year with a ‘Walk for Women,’ showing the world how great Manchester and its women are, putting women at the heart of the event, but throwing the invitation open to everyone who supports women and our cause.”
Deputy council leader Sue Murphy said: “As a council which has championed the rights of women for many years, this International Women’s Day was an important date marking the economic, political and social achievements of women.
“This event was not just a celebration, but a ‘thank you’ to women in this centenary year.
“We take pride in our strong Manchester women who contribute enormously to the city and are the glue that hold many of our communities and neighbourhoods together.”