In 2015 Soroptimist International of Manchester was asked, together with the Pankhurst Trust, WordPlay and Manchester City Council, to take part in a literary project in which women would write and share their experiences of living, working and growing up in Manchester. Initially a book was planned but the project changed along the way following advice from the Arts Council who helped fund the project. Four of our members were on the steering committee.
The call went out last year to all women from any background to write their words. Workshops were arranged in libraries around the city for those who needed help with their writing. Other workshops were arranged to help the vulnerable and marginalised (victims of domestic violence, refugees, asylum seekers and the homeless) who produced rosettes and aprons with their words on. All entries will be on display in the Central Library until the end of April and will be archived later in the year.
Some stories have been published in a magazine based on the original magazine, The Suffragette.
A celebratory Suffragette Tea Party was held on 5th February – the eve of the day 100 years ago women were granted the vote. Dr Helen Pankhurst, great granddaughter of Emmeline spoke. Many of those who sent in entries were there and the final three whose pieces were included in the magazine read out their entries – it was wonderful to hear their words.
It has been amazing to take part in the process with so many interesting, dynamic women. I have been out of my comfort zone but have learned so much, blogged for the first time and taken part in some of the workshops. It has also been a great way to spread the word about our club and the work we do to help women and girls.
President Rose Marginson