International Women’s Day is a global event marked on 8 March every year, celebrating the social, cultural, economic, and political achievements of women.

As well as celebrating the achievements of women, the day also provides an opportunity to

  • Raise awareness about women’s equality
  • Lobby for accelerated gender parity.
  • Fundraise for female-focused charities

The theme for this year’s event is ‘Choose to Challenge’, and individuals are encouraged to stand up to gender bias and inequality.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, physical events aren’t able to take place this year, however IWD Derby are marking the event with an online series of inspiring workshops from Friday 5 till Monday 8 March, highlighting women’s rights issues, empowering creative expressions, courageous conversations and uplifting celebrations.

Vanessa Boon, Chair of International Women’s Day Derby Committee and Derbyshire Inspirational Woman of the Year Award Winner, said:

In these trying times events that foster togetherness are more important than ever. Though we’ll miss sharing stories, food, and music in the same physical space, we hope the virtual sessions will give people a much-needed boost to wellbeing, confidence and a sense of connection to the community again. 

As part of the Derby City Council’s offering, Derby Adult Learning Service will be providing an inclusive range of interactive online sessions including:

  • Not at all Idle Women! – Celebrating volunteers in the Second World War. 
  • Spanish and Latin American Women who positively challenged inequality. 
  • The Woman who was Queen of England twice and called out gender bias. 
  • Aethelflaed – Warrior and Peace-weaver.  The Lady of the Mercians.

The Council’s Adoption and Fostering team are also using International Women’s Day to celebrate all the inspirational, caring and dedicated women who foster vulnerable children in Derby.

Refuge, one of Derby City Council’s domestic abuse partners, continue to provide support for victims of domestic abuse. Their 24 hour phone lines offer confidential safety, emotional and practical support and information.

You can follow updates from the day on Derby City Council’s Facebook page. To find out more about International Women’s Day visit the official website. Tickets to the IWD Derby events are available through their Eventbrite page.