It’s York International Women’s Week on 6th-14th March 2021 . There are many events being held for York International Women’s Week and there are 2 pre-programme events too. OCAY are holding an event on 11th March to explain what Advocacy is and how we can support people.

Download the full YIWW2021 Programme  or start with the one-page YIWW2021 Programme_at-a-glance.  If you would like a printed copy, contact York Women’s Voices by email (yorkwomenswvoices@gmail.com) or phone (01904 702060) and they will post one to you.

We’re sure you’ll be as excited as we are to see what local women have come up with to explore, survive and discuss the implications of life in a pandemic for women locally and globally. Check out events on women’s rights and experiences in various locations throughout the world, or share your own stories; try out poetry, crafting or yoga; take a guided walk in a local wood (covid willing); see how a women’s brass band and women farmers have coped; discuss the benefits of natural medicine or older age advocacy; visit a feminist art exhibition; hear stories of York’s women in the frontline down the ages – and more!  The week ends with our very own version of Question Time and the chance to put questions and debate with 5 leading local female politicians.  As always, events are pulled together into the programme by a group of volunteers.

We expect some of the events to be available to watch again so keep an eye on York International Women’s Week website for the links.

This year almost all events are online. We recognise that for many women this will affect accessibility: for some the chance to engage with others from their home will open up opportunities; for others, participating in online events will be difficult or even impossible.

If you like the sound of an event but have not yet tried online events then we encourage you to have a go. York Women’s Voices will be offering a free online ‘Beginners Guide to Zoom’ on 25th February as well as a short Zoom Guide, details available on their website or by post on request.

For 2021 we look forward to making the most of the internet as we welcome not only local people, but also those living elsewhere in the UK, the rest of Europe and the world to join us in virtual York for discussion, information, relaxation, support and activism.