Leeds City Council celebrates International Women’s Day 2021

Leeds City Council is encouraging people across the city to celebrate International Women’s Day on Monday (8 March) by getting involved with a range of free digital events.

The council is holding its annual celebration over Zoom this year, which will be hosted for the eighth consecutive time by former leader of the council, Baroness Judith Blake of Leeds.

The event will be an opportunity to connect with others and celebrate the incredible women from across our region. The Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Eileen Taylor and Sinead Rocks, Managing Director Nations and Regions at Channel Four will also be speaking on the day. The event is at 10am on Monday 8 March and you can register for a place here.

Other events include the launch of HerStory in the Making by the Getaway Girls, a digital storytelling project featuring 24 tales of reflection, learning and hope from young women during lockdown. You can book your place for this event, which kicks off at 3pm on Sunday 7 March, here.

Inclusive Companies are also hosting an event which will celebrate intersectionality and the individuality of women. Those who attend will listen to the voices and stories of women from different backgrounds as the panel explores a range of topics, raising awareness against bias, and taking action for equality. You can register for this event here.

Dozens of other events celebrating the day can be found at: https://www.leedsinspired.co.uk/collection/international-womens-day-2021

Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said:

“Throughout history women in Leeds have led the way and played a vital role in shaping the city we know and love.  International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate everything these women have achieved, but also to note that there is still a way to go to achieve true equality, something which the council is committed to doing. The calendar of events is slightly different this year due to coronavirus restrictions, but we hope that people across the city can still get involved and celebrate this important day.”

Baroness Judith Blake of Leeds, said:

“International Women’s Day is a significant day in the calendar and I couldn’t miss the opportunity to mark it once again at the council’s annual celebration. There are some incredible women in this region and it is crucial we celebrate them not just today, but every day.”

Councillor Jools Heselwood, Women’s Champion, said:

“There are some fantastic events planned in Leeds to mark International Women’s Day and I encourage people of all genders to get involved and join in where possible.”

ENDS