Hastings Women's Voice march

A sixty-strong crowd marched from Warrior Square to the White Rock Theatre to demonstrate support for the local organisation which strives to empower the female population of Hastings and St Leonards.

The crowd boasted women of all ages and, as deputy mayor Judy Rogers pointed out, men as well, to support the work of the nonprofit organisation.

Cllr Rogers made her opening speech in line with this year’s theme ‘Gender parity’ to coincide with Tuesday’s International Women’s Day celebrations.

“Where I can, I try to support everything I can,” she said.

International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.

This year it takes place on Tuesday, March 8.

It also focuses on eradicating gender differences and creating closer gender parity.

“Women’s empowerment and education is a priority for us and the theme of this year’s celebration is very important,’ said Shiva Serati chairman of Women’s Voice.

She and her colleagues are passionate about equality and women’s rights and breaking down the barriers to education and employment.

“We just finished a project regarding women and employment in Hastings, tackling issues of self-confidence and creating empowerment for all,” she said.

Women’s Voice is run by women for women and its primary aim is to empower local women of all ages, cultures and abilities.

The idea is to bring women together to foster mutual respect and understanding.

“We are so pleased that we have created this event, which was part-funded by Hastings Borough Council and Sussex Community Development Association,” said Shiva.

Anyone who would like to find out more about the work of Women’s Voice and International Women’s Day can visit www.womens-voice.org.uk or www.internationalwomensday.com.

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