A team of academic researchers under the auspices of London South Bank University (LSBU), University of Kent and the AHRC Network have secured funds to undertake a study that focuses on the central question of how local grassroots women’s organisations in Ireland and England, active since the early twentieth century, can identify strategies to safeguard their survival into the future. The study is titled
‘Women’s Grassroots Activism in England and Ireland: 1918 to the present’
SITWD are delighted to have been be part of this study since it was mooted in 2020 because while many women’s organisations such WI are recognised for their activism, Soroptimism is often described as ‘a well-kept’ secret. SITWD club members recognise that a significant way to undermine women in national life is to ignore their role by overlooking their researchable historical records both physical and oral. Through such neglect it makes it impossible to prove the value of women’s contribution to society. Through this study academia has now begun to address this. Another effect of such neglect is to hinder progress to gender equality, acceptance of which is essential to prevent violence against women and girls. Societies that value men and women equally are safer, healthier and more able to achieve economic prosperity. The aim of this project is to record the legacy and sustainability of women’s organisations, starting with Soroptimist clubs, the WI and the Irish Countrywomen’s Association thereby arguing for and proving the importance of women’s roles in the achievement of gender quality.
To this end SISEE region has adopted to take part in this study as a way of addressing these issues, and SITWD has been delighted to take part in initial pilot studies that helped secure ongoing funding for the research.
Further information on the scope and progress of the study will be published here on a regular basis.
