International Women’s Day – Friday 8 March

With well over a century of history and change, the first International Women’s Day (IWD) was held in March 1911. IWD isn’t country, group, or organisation specific. It’s a day of collective global activism and celebration that belongs to all those committed to forging women’s equality. 

World-renowned feminist, journalist and activist, Gloria Steinem, reportedly once explained: “The story of women’s struggle for equality belongs to no single feminist nor to any one organisation but to the collective efforts of all who care about human rights.”

So together, let’s all help fight the good fight. All IWD activity is valid, that’s what makes IWD so inclusive. Join in and make IWD your day by doing what you can to support and advance women.

The campaign theme for International Women’s Day 2024 is Inspire Inclusion.

When we inspire others to understand and value women’s inclusion, we forge a better world. And when women themselves are inspired to be included, there’s a sense of belonging, relevance, and empowerment. Collectively, let’s forge a more inclusive world for women.

Here are some events taking place in Birmingham which celebrate International Women’s Day:

• The Light House

Thursday 7 to Friday 8 March, 7.30pm at The Old Joint Stock Pub and Theatre

Written, performed, directed, and produced by an all-female creative team, The Light House is a real-life love story about a woman who falls in love with an old friend and journeys with him through a mental health crisis. It’s about love and hope, and the way human beings hold onto each other when things get tough. This one-woman show is a warm, witty, and thought-provoking theatrical journey in which audiences are invited to join Alys as she dances in the kitchen, sings in the streets, and tries to find some light in the dark.

More info and to book your ticket: https://www.oldjointstock.co.uk/whats-on/the-light-house

• Free Jazz Fridays – Elysia Biro

Friday 8 March, 5pm at the Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space at Symphony Hall

Blessed with an innate ability to forge meaningful bonds with her audience, Elysia cherishes the profound connection that blossoms between artist and listener. Combing popular genres with deep influences from jazz music, Elysia shares her acoustic original music in combination with classic jazz covers. From the vibrant streets of London, her current residence, to the tranquil shores of her hometown, Vancouver Island, Canada, she weaves her magic, uniting hearts through her songwriting.

Free to attend, no booking required. 

More info: https://bmusic.co.uk/events/free-jazz-fridays-elysia-biro

• Women in the Archive

Friday 8 March, 11am to 12 noon at Winterbourne House and Garden

A chance to see original archival material up close. The session will include photos, letters, diaries, artworks, and botanical specimens which shed light on women’s lives from the late 19th century to the 1940s. Hear directly from Winterbourne House and Garden’s Curator Henrietta Lockhart about these very special pieces and the stories behind them. Tickets to this talk includes admission to the site so why not make a day of it?

More info and to book your place: https://www.winterbourne.org.uk/whats-on/women-in-the-archive/

• Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce International Women’s Day Celebration 2024

Thursday 7 March, 6pm – 9.30pm at University College Birmingham

Enjoy a Drinks reception and three course dinner with panel speakers. This event provides opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, understand the importance of International Women’s Day, hear inspirational stories and personal experiences, and show your support and be part in making change.

More info and to book your place: https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/event-calendar/international-women-s-day-celebration-2024.html

• ThinkFest International Women’s Day Conference & Exhibition

Friday 8 March, 9am to 5.30pm at Millennium Point

This in-person event brings together influential speakers, thought-provoking discussions, and a vibrant exhibition showcasing the talents of women from various fields. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by remarkable women from around the world. Come and be part of this incredible celebration of women’s accomplishments and the journey towards a more inclusive society.

More info and to book your place: https://www.millenniumpoint.org.uk/presents/whats-on/international-womens-day-conference-exhibition/