Story:Yiwen Zheng | Photos: Lisa Swift
Women in Burngreave joined in the celebrations for International Women’s Day in March.
International Women’s Day on 8th March celebrates the economic, political and social achievements of the past, present and future. Its origins are rooted in the struggle for women’s rights for fair pay and working conditions, universal suffrage and equal rights. It has been celebrated worldwide since 1911.
Nearly 200 women celebrated on March 12th at Verdon Recreation Centre. There were stalls, activities and workshops at the event, including Somali dance, Zumba, henna, a live DJ, and laughing yoga. The women enjoyed delicious food and refreshments.
The celebration was organised by health workers, Tahira Faiz, Somshun Nessa and Shima Nazir and were assisted by Aislinn Adams and volunteers who run a women’s project – Feeling Good – which started last September. It gives Burngreave women a chance to socialise, exercise, knit, sew and get health advice.
Local resident Ursula Myrie gave an inspiring speech at the event. Ursula, who runs the Adira support group in Fir Vale, talked about her experience of domestic abuse and encouraged women who are suffering to seek help.
“I have two daughters and we moved to Sheffield to flee domestic violence. I feel better in myself now and I want to give something back. So I set up Adira to support single parents. You cannot live in fear forever. I say to others, ‘I found a way out so can you.’”
Adult students from Byron Wood School’s English class wrote about their experience of International Women’s Day.
“When we arrived there were lots of activities like hairdressing, eye examinations, facials and things for sale. We drank coffee and ate biscuits and fruit. We really enjoyed it there!’’ Ebtesam Obaid
‘‘The hall had a lot of people. Women did henna and massage. After that they played music and some people danced. I enjoyed it very much.’’ Dama Abdi
‘‘I saw someone doing make up, a lady with books from the library and someone with flowers and plants. I ate some fruit and bought a book for my daughter. It was a nice day, I loved it.’’ Dhua Shaif
‘‘It was great. We experienced hand massages, great free food and henna as well. We also saw great hair products and there was a nurse who checked people’s blood pressure. Everything was free. It was very good.’’ Khadra Liban
