Publish date: 12 February 2025
The theme for International Women's Day (IWD) is "Accelerate Action" - towards gender equality. According to the World Economic Forum, at the current pace, achieving full gender parity will take until 2158, approximately five generations from now.
NHS Confederation are hosting a national free webinar on Friday, 7 March from 10am to 12 noon.
As part of International Women's Day celebrations, the Wellbeing Team will be holding two Teams sessions on Thursday 13 March. We know there’s still a stigma associated with talking about menopause, but we want to support colleagues to feel comfortable to have open conversations with other colleagues. We are running training on how to have supportive conversations at 10am, you can sign up here. We will also be running our Living Well with Menopause session at 1pm. Both sessions are open to all staff, who may be directly or indirectly impacted by menopause regardless of gender or role within the Trust.
Are you interested in joining our Women’s Network?
The Women’s Network provides a voice for the things that are important to our female staff and through collective action, highlights the significance and value of having a gender equal working environment.
The network is for everyone, and we are interested in getting views from women of all ages, cultures and experiences about what’s important to you.
If you are unable to attend meetings, we are happy to receive suggestions by email and share updates with you.
For more info, or to join, please email: Women
Introduction to the Importance of Inclusion
Women’s History Month is a time dedicated to recognising and celebrating the contributions of women throughout history. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that this celebration has often overlooked the experiences and contributions of transgender women. Transgender women, particularly those of colour, have played a vital role in advocating for women’s rights and fighting against systemic injustices. Their visibility and representation are essential not only during this month but throughout the year.
Historical Contributions of Trans Women
Trans women have been integral to many pivotal moments in LGBTQ+ history, which also intersects with women’s rights movements. For instance, events like the Compton’s Cafeteria Riot in 1966 marked significant resistance against police harassment and discrimination faced by trans individuals. This riot is recognised as one of the earliest instances of collective militant queer resistance in U.S. history, highlighting how trans women have historically fought for their rights alongside broader feminist movements.
Moreover, figures such as Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera were instrumental in the Stonewall Riots, which catalysed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. Their activism not only focused on gay rights but also emphasised issues affecting marginalised communities within the LGBTQ+ spectrum, including trans women.
The Role of Allies
Cisgender allies play a crucial role in amplifying the voices of trans women during Women’s History Month and beyond. It is important for allies to educate themselves about trans identities and experiences while actively supporting trans rights. This includes recognising the unique challenges faced by trans women, such as higher rates of violence, discrimination in employment and healthcare, and social stigma.
By celebrating trans women’s achievements and acknowledging their struggles, allies can help create a more inclusive narrative that honours all aspects of womanhood. This intentional allyship fosters solidarity within feminist movements and ensures that no woman’s experience is erased or diminished.
Visibility Matters
Transgender Day of Visibility serves as an important reminder that visibility can be both empowering and dangerous for trans individuals. Celebrating trans women during Women’s History Month contributes to greater awareness about their existence and experiences while promoting safety and acceptance within society.
Highlighting stories from trans women can provide insight into their lives, struggles, triumphs, and contributions to society. By sharing these narratives widely—through articles, discussions, or community events—society can work towards dismantling stereotypes and fostering understanding.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is imperative to include transgender women in our narratives. Their contributions are invaluable to both feminism and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Recognising their struggles against erasure allows us to honour their legacy while working towards a future where all forms of womanhood are celebrated equally.