International Women's Day is dedicated to raising awareness about gender equality and celebrating the achievements of women.
There will be some inspirational events at Oldham Library, where you can take part in highlighting amazing women, past and present, throughout the day on Tuesday 8 March.
The council is encouraging residents across Oldham to nominate their local heroines – women who have inspired them or who have achieved something for Oldham – to be featured on its social media channels throughout the day.
It could be someone from a local voluntary organisation, a community leader or someone from Oldham's past like Annie Kenney or Lydia Beckett.
People can make a nomination by sending a direct message to one of the council's social media channels or by completing the online form at www.oldham.gov.uk/IWD
The theme of this year’s day is #BreakTheBias with the aim of encouraging us all to imagine world free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination – a world where difference is valued and celebrated.
Alongside the celebrations, Oldham Library is hosting two events:
- Sylvia vs the Fascists, Tuesday 8 March, 2pm and 7pm. A comedy-drama telling the story of Sylvia Pankhurst, who stood up against a British Establishment so afraid of socialism that it appeased the fascists on its own doorstep.
Book tickets through Eventbrite here.
- Finding Magic, Wednesday 9 March, 7pm. A one-woman show about how Bev explores her progression through grief and healing after the loss of her son Jess – a story of loss, longing, love and laughter.
Book tickets through Eventbrite here.
Tickets to the shows are £5 each.
Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Deputy Leader of Oldham Council, said: “As a council we stand against bias and discrimination of all kinds and encourage people to commit to helping forge an inclusive world. Throughout history, Oldham women have led the way and helped shape the town we know today.
“Whether deliberate or unconscious, bias makes it difficult for women to move forward. Knowing that bias exists isn’t enough and we all need to work together to level the playing field.
“That’s why during this year’s International Women’s Day, we wanted to highlight inspirational local women, amplifying their voices and ‘breaking the bias’. We want to encourage residents to help share their stories of inspirational local women and showcase the great work that has taken place, past or present, across the borough.
“We and invite residents to get in touch with their nomination in the coming week so we can share with others and celebrate what Oldham women have achieved.”.
“Now let’s all get involved and celebrate the achievements of our local women.”
For more information on International Women’s Day, visit www.internationalwomensday.com
Residents can also help to spread the word by creating their own social media cards on the International Women’s Day website and by sharing their image with the hashtags #IWD2022 and #BreakTheBias.