This Thursday, 8 March, is International Women’s Day, a celebration of women’s economic, political and social achievements. This year’s theme is the empowerment of women, and London is offering several events to help you celebrate the occasion.
1. WOW Women of the World Festival
This three-day festival is comprised of events made by and for women, including live music by artists like Sinead O’Connor, comedy, film screenings, and debate. WOW will highlight the need for greater equality, with appearances by host Annie Lennox, and guests Katy B and Emeli Sande.
The festival begins tomorrow, 7 March, at Southbank Centre. Prices vary, ranging from £12 for one day to £30 for a 3-day pass. For more information, visit Southbank Centre’s website: http://ticketing.southbankcentre.co.uk/wow
2. Neal’s Yard Remedies to Donate Profits
Neal’s Yard Remedies will donate 10-percent of its total business sales to Women for Women International on Thursday. The charity supports socially excluded women where war and conflict have devastated lives and communities.
“Empowerment is one of our key message, and last year on behalf of Neal’s Yard Remedies, I was privileged to see first-hand one of the incredible projects Women for Women International runs in Kosovo by giving women the knowledge and skill to run their own business,” said Nicola Nolan, PR and events manager at Neal’s Yard Remedies. “Neal’s Yard Remedies is proud to support this amazing charity on International Women’s Day.”
To purchase items from NYR’s fabulous bath and body lines, as well as help a good cause, visit Neal’s Yard Remedies website or stop by one of their many London shops.
3. All Work and Low Pay: The Story of Women and Work
This exhibition at The Women’s Library focuses on the occupations of women over the past 150 years, highlighting women’s campaign for equal pay and fair working conditions. The exhibition lasts until Saturday, Mar 31.
4. International Women’s Fair at Spitalfields Market
Stop by Old Spitalfields Market on Saturday, 10 March, to celebrate the creativity and resourcefulness of women from around the world.
From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the market will boast crafts, art, jewellery, fashion, food and books, as well as feature workshops, food demonstrations, live music, and pop up poetry performances. There will also be stalls with information about women’s campaign groups and services.
4. Women of Whitechapel Walk
Join others on Saturday, 10 March for an educational walk through sites associated with who have helped define Whitechapel and Spitalfields, including Edith Cavell, Mary Hughes, Monica Ali and Tracey Emin. The walk begins at the Women’s Library on Old Castle St. and booking is required.
Can’t leave the house or office to catch these events? Celebrate inspiring women in your life by sending a free International Women’s Day e-card.
For a comprehensive list of London events celebrating International Women’s Day, or for more information, visit the IWD website.