International Women's Day: weekend of meaningful events in Frome
Frome Town Council celebrates International Women's Day
Frome is celebrating International Women's Day (IWD) with a series of events meant to entertain and prompt meaningful conversations.
This year's 'Lightning Talks' are themed around 'Give to Gain', in which submissions saw participants invited to share ideas in short five-minute presentations that aim to touch, move, or inspire.
Motivator and influencer Lu Featherstone will be part of Frome's Saturday market activities on 7th March with her vintage American bus 'Susie'.
She will promote male allyship and the White Ribbon campaign, offering an opportunity for people to engage on these topics.
Frome town councillors will also attend the market for their regular 'meet the councillor' session between 10am and 12pm.
The IWD celebration continues on 8th March with a free screening of the Emma Rice Company's 'Blue Beard' at The Merlin Theatre.
Attendees are welcomed to donate £3, which will go towards women's safety programs and White Ribbon initiatives in Frome.
The Emma Rice Company's feminist retelling of the French folktale addresses themes of consent, violence, and vengeance.
Lucy McMahon from the town council's White Ribbon steering group expressed thanks to the Emma Rice Company for their generosity and highlighted the impact of their storytelling.
She also mentioned future activities related to their White Ribbon accreditation program, including collaborations with local schools, sports clubs, and businesses.
“This year’s IWD theme ‘Give to Gain’ inspires us, and we're thrilled to have Lu Featherstone back following her excellent performance in 2024,” McMahon said.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what the Lightning Talks bring this year and encourage everyone to participate in making Frome a safer place for women and girls."
International Women's Day falls annually on 8th March, celebrating advancements in the social, economic, cultural, and political arenas for women and girls, while also recognising the ongoing efforts required for gender equality.
More information on how to participate, including submitting a Lightning Talk or attending the 'Blue Beard' screening, can be found via provided links.