Crosby’s Soroptimists marked International Women’s Day 2021 with a world-wide link-up.
Soroptimists from SI Crosby’s ‘friendship clubs’ joined together ‘virtually’ for a morning celebrating women’s achievements.
A warm welcome was extended to guests, including members from SI Falkenberg (Sweden) and SI Joondalup (Australia).
Crosby members Stephanie, Elspeth and Jane spoke of their careers. They work – and worked – in environments ‘dominated’ by men. Trailblazers they have been, standing up for themselves and for other women in the workplace.
Christine from SI Keighley (Yorkshire) told of her former MP Ann Cryer. Ann investigated the grooming and sexual exploitation of young girls in her community. She stood up for the mothers who were not being listened to. Despite personal safety issues she persisted. Eventually legal protection and other measures were put in place.
Denise from SI Jesi (Italy) chose to tell the story of Maria Montessori, born only a few kilometres from the town. She is, of course, famed for her contribution to education. However, Maria’s earlier struggle to qualify as a physician at the end of the 19th century – and then her personal challenges – influenced her work with children.
Soroptimists ‘choose to challenge’ inequality and gender bias. This International Women’s Day event was a fitting celebration of women’s potential and power.