International Women’s Day is an important event in the calendar each year. It has its roots in the Women’s Suffrage movement from the early 1900s, where women campaigned for the right to vote and other equalities such as better pay.
In 1910, Clara Zetkin, the Leader of the ‘Women’s Office’ of Germany’s Social Democratic Party, proposed at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen a Women’s Day to be celebrated across multiple countries on the same day each year. This came after the Socialist Party in America held the first National Women’s Day in 1909.
As a result, the first International Women’s Day was celebrated across Austria, Germany, Denmark and Switzerland on the 19th March 1911. The date was changed to the 8th March in 1921 after a strike from Russian women for “bread and peace” in 1917. And International Women’s Day was officially recognised by the United Nations in 1977.
The day has gone on to be a public holiday in many countries including China, Russia and Uganda, and has played an important role in fighting for gender equality and women’s rights across the world.
Here at ECSA we strive to uplift the voices of our students and staff, and for International Women’s Day this year we are hosting a talent showcase in the Granton Hub, complete with singing, dancing, poetry and more. But before we get to that on Monday 10th March, 12pm-2pm, we would like to introduce the wonderful women that are part of our ECSA team!
Genevieve Fay – Representation & Impact Coordinator
- How would you describe your style/personality?
I would like to think of myself as a kind and caring person. Being in nature, listening to music, riding my bike and looking at art are all things that make me happy, but I love being around people too. And my colleagues will tell you, I make a great cup of tea!
- What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
I didn't really mark International Women's Day before I started working at the Students' Association, but now it's one of my favourite events of the year. It's a great reason to celebrate the talented and vibrant women who make up our college community. We always take a celebratory approach, but it's worth remembering that it's a day of action too - there's still so much to do in terms of gender equality, from equal pay, to women's health and tackling day-to-day discrimination.
- Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I run an art blog in my spare time, which is great because it gives me an excuse to travel around Scotland and further afield, exploring new places, meeting new people and learning new things.
Sukinder Landa – VP Welfare
- How would you describe your style/personality?
Real caring with a funny attitude. And very interesting.
- What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
It means we can celebrate all the Amazing woman out there who have been present though out our my life.
- Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I have a 5-year-old son, and I take great pride in raising him.
Laura Balestrieri – Student Engagement Assistant
- How would you describe your style/personality?
Well, I’d say I’m a bit of an introvert with a weird sense of humour. I love making people laugh, and I try to embrace my quirks, staying true to who I am. I like to keep things unique, and I’m not afraid to stand out from time to time - especially with my bright red-dyed hair!
- What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
I know how tough it can be to find your place and to balance your true self while trying to fit in in this world. But that’s why this day matters to me, it's about supporting each other, and pushing for a world where we don’t have to fight so hard to be seen and heard.
- Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I love alpacas.🦙 I mean, I am really obsessed with them. They make me smile! I have lots of alpaca-themed stuff on it - pencil cases, bags, keychains, towels, you name it - not counting my plushie collection! I even try to bring back an alpaca souvenir from every place I visit
Lauren McKay – Student Engagement Assistant
- How would you describe your style/personality?
I think I’m very curious about other humans and I get a lot out of learning about people’s lives. I once told a friend that hearing people describe their experiences feels like eating ice cream for me - I really enjoy it! But I do think of myself more as an introvert and relish doing ‘alone’ activities (especially if they are creative!) such as reading, drawing and writing.
- What does International Women’s Day mean to you?
For me it’s a chance to learn more about other women’s experiences and successes, to see them shine!
- Tell us a fun fact about yourself?
I don’t think this is a fun fact, but I used to collect different types of salt. I also used to collect different types of mayonnaise (I know from experience that that can be a divisive statement).