8 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2018 www.edinburghnews.com EVENING NEWS EDINBURGH EVENING NEWS www.edinburghnews.com TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2018 9 FEATURES

SUFFRAGETTESTIMELINE 1832 Celebrating the spirit together Mary Smith presented the first women’s petition to Parliament 1866 Awomen’s suffrage committee was formed ■ SHAPPI KHORSANDI Edinburgh caught up in women’s struggle for equality as bomb set off at Royal Observatory 1867 Comedian, Lydia Becker founded the Manchester National Author and Society for Women’s Suffrage Amnesty Picture: NATIONAL LIBRARY OF SCOTLAND supporter EFORE 1918 women had almost no role in 1897 BBritishpolitics –they HAVING A VOICE: A National Union of Women’s Suffrage Societies NE hundred yearsago didn’t even havethe right to suffragette march on Princes (NUWSS) was founded today, British women vote. Awoman’s role was do- Street in 1909 Owere given avoice. For mestic, encompassinglittle out- 1903 the first time, many mothers, side having children and taking daughtersandsisterscouldhave care of the home. The suffra- Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) asay in how their country was gettes changed this. was formed by and two run. face surveillance, intimidation, Every time these women have The 19th century was an era of her daughters. Mrs Pankhurst was arrested, Back then, up and threats,imprisonmentandsome spokenup, they’ve helped make of massive change. The Indus- tried and imprisoned on anumber of occasions down the countrywould stop even risk theirlives.But you life better for others —toen- trial Revolution and numerous over the next decade at almost nothing to get their don’t need to travel thousands sure that you and I, as well fu- reforms,including the abolition voicesheard in parliament. The of miles to meet womenfight- ture generations, enjoy afairer, of slavery in 1833, saw society 1907 struggle to win the vote was ing for justice and equality. In more equal world. changed forever. Women did long and arduous, but in 1918 fact, there’s probably awoman The amazing achievements see some progress –in1859 Women’s Freedom League founded by Charlotte these brave women won. human rights defender living at of these often-unsung heroes the first female doctor was reg- Despard and Teresa Billington-Grieg Since then, women around your doorstep. deserve to be celebrated, and istered, in 1878 women could the worldhavechannelled the This is why Amnestyand Amnesty wants to put them graduatefrom university,and 1909 suffragette spirit to campaign this newspaper want read- on its Suffragette Spirit Map of in 1882 women were allowed Hunger strikes and force-feeding began for progress. They have stood ers to nominate the incredible Britain. to keep inherited property and up to racism, sexism, homo- women who are makingareal The interactive map, which wages. But they still couldn’t 1914 phobia, corruption and much difference in theirlocal area. will launch on International vote. First World War begins and WSPU and NUWSS more. Ordinary women from all walks Women’s day, will be asym- Campaigns for women’s cease campaigning Last century’s suffragettes are of life —from students to shop- bolofthe suffragette legacy rights, includingthe right to today’s women human rights keepers, office workers to OAPs —proudly displaying how far vote, started around the mid- defenders. Every day they har- —are doing extraordinary we have come over the past 19th century, after Mary Smith 1918 ness their passionate voices to things. century, but highlighting delivered the firstwomen’s Representation of the People Act passed empower communities and cre- They might have stood up how much life-changing suffrage petition to parlia- allowing men over 21 and women over 30 to ate afairer world. to bullies, helped the home- work is still being carried out ment in 1832. But it wasn’t re- vote Amnesty International less, aided refugees, worked today. ally until 1897, when Millicent campaigns to help pro- to protect the environment So, over to you: Which Fawcett founded the National 1919 tect women human rights or campaignedfor better 21st century suffragette de- Union of Women’s Suffrage defendersaround the world. access to healthcare. The list serves to be put firmly on the Societies, that the campaign for Nancy Astor is the first female MP to sit in the These brave campaigners often goes on. map? women’s suffrage really gained House of Commons momentum. These campaigners were 1928 HOW TO NOMINATE known as suffragistsand they Representation of the People Act is amended To nominate an amazing woman in your local area, please visit www.amnesty.org.uk/ believed debate, petitionsand and allows everyone over the age of 21 to vote suffragettespirit. All women must have carried out work to help others in their local peacefulprotest were the keys area within the last 10 years. to success. But the suffra- All successful nominees will be contacted to give consent prior to being placed on the gists failed to get results, and 1970 Suffragette Spirit Map of Britain. many campaigners decided a Equal Pay Act –men and women get the same This campaign has been funded by People’s Postcode Lottery. more militant approach was cut phone lines and one, Emily the Capital and the vein of afew currant biscuitswrapped the Royal Scottish Academy in wage for same job required. Davidson, threw herselfunder a political action ran from rallies in paper, acoupleofsafety pins, Edinburgh. In 1903 Emmeline Pankhurst racehorse to get the suffragette to rousingspeeches to criminal and in the groundswerefound The centreofEdinburgh was Source: Parliament.uk and her two daughters Christa- message heard. activity. two pieces of paper” –one read also the setting for asuffragist FIRSTMINISTER SHOWS HERSUPPORTASSTAMPS MARK DAY bel and ,set up the Wom- But the suffragettes’fight So desperate were the city’s “How beggarly appearsargu- demonstration in October 1909, en’s Political and Social Union paid off. In 1918, the Repre- women to draw attention to ment before defiant deed. Votes whichdrew “an enormous SING IT: , aged9,dressedfor the Women’s NICOLA Sturgeon has achievements –itis in Manchesterwith its slogan sentation of the People Act was their cause, many served prison for women.” crowd”. It was described in The Franchise Procession andDemonstration in October 1909 announced a£500,000 also atime to inject “deeds not words”. Thesewom- passed, giving women over the terms for public disturbance. Another suffragette, Maude Scotsman as an “afternoon that fund to drive greater new momentum into en becameknownassuffra- age of 30 who owned acertain And one story,which remains Edwards,who had attempted will be remembered as agreat storiesremain hidden –tucked public gardens, streets and representation of women in increasing women’s gettes and soon made headlines amount of property the right to unsolved to this day, saw a to draw attention to Mrs Pan- success”. away only to be unearthedon thoroughfares are packed with Scottish politics in “tribute” political representation up and down thecountry. vote,alongwithall men over 21. woman, suspected to be asuf- khurst’sfailed attempt to lead And now, acentury after the an anniversary or when alocal proud reminders of the city’s to the suffragettes. and supporting their Suffragettes were ashock to It would be afurther ten years fragette, set off abomb at the adeputation to the King at hard-fought battle to have the group takes an interest. Our history –they’rejustall men. The First Minister said contribution to Scottish Edwardian society. They in- untilthe vote was extended Royal Observatory. Buckingham Palace,was tried voices of women across the much progress had been political and public life. terrupted political meetings, to all women, when the Equal On May 21, 1913, the attack at Edinburgh Sheriff Court on country heard,isdoubtless made since women won “While we have come a chained themselves to railings, Franchise Act was passed, but was reported to have taken Friday, July 3, 1914. She was worthy of celebration. the right to vote acentury long way since 1918, much yelled while waving banners it was amajor step in the right place at 1am in which “the convicted and imprisoned af- But 100 yearson, the voices ago but stressed that more still needs to be done if we emblazoned with VOTES FOR direction for the movement. perpetrators left behind them ter being found guilty of slash- may be louder but the accom- action is needed. are to eradicate gender WOMEN, were regularly ar- The fight for rightful suf- aladies’ handbag of the kind ing John Lavery’s portrait of plishments of the Capital’s The Scottish Government inequality and create a rested, went on , fragefor women did not evade used for shopping. It contained King George Vondisplay at womenoverthe centuries, their fund will provide grants fairer and more prosperous for local initiatives across country. Scotland to encourage “This funding will EDINBURGH STOOD AS AHOTBED OF SUFFRAGISTACTIVITYAS WOMEN STOOD TOGETHER TO BE COUNTED women to take up political ensure we pay tribute to roles and to projects the women who fought for commemorating the 100th the rights that women have THE Evening News has selfless dedication to both become one of the nation’s statues of animals than it anniversary. today, as well as playing launched a£50,000 the betterment of health first female doctors. does of women. The lack Speaking ahead of apart in encouraging the fundraising drive to secure and to securing votes for The Evening News’ of heroines immortalised aHolyrood debate next generation of women Meanwhile, aset of pioneering suffragist Elsie women. campaign was launched in stone or bronze is only celebrating acentury of leaders.” special stamps is being Inglis astatue in the city During the First World with the support of made more apparent by women’s suffrage in issued to mark the that she so rightly War, hospitals were staffed Capital-based charity, One the stark contrast when the UK, Ms Sturgeon centenary of the right deserves. solely by women to help City Trust –which fights it comes to their male said: “Celebrating the of women to vote in It will not only recognise the Allied war effort on the inequality and exclusion. counterparts. In 2016, 100th anniversary of parliamentary elections. her personal medical frontline, with Churchill Lord Provost Frank Ross, members of Women women securing The eight stamps achievements, including lauding Dr Inglis as a president of One City Trust, In Focus In Edinburgh the right to vote is a feature original setting up the Scottish heroine that “will shine in said there was no better (WIFIE) sought to highlight great occasion. photographs documenting Women’s Hospitals during history”. time to push ahead and this imbalance, erecting five “Not only some of the actions taken the First World War, but Dr Inglis also established secure astatue to honour blown-up photos of notable WEAR WITH PRIDE: Votes for women sash: The green, does it remind by women campaigning for will stand as amark of the amedical college for women Dr Inglis. Edinburgh women –one of white and purple sash which Bessie wore with pride has PROGRESS: Page from the Edinburgh Evening News us of women’s the vote. HELPING HAND: enduring impact of her in the Capital –after she Edinburgh has more them Dr Inglis. been carefully preserved. detailing the suffragette bomb attack on the Royal Picture: The People’s Story, Edinburgh Museums &Galleries Observatory that occurred on May 21, 1913 Tuesday February 6, 2018 ANALYSIS, INSIGHT, OPINION NEWS 5 Brave women who suffered for suffrage Holyrood JODY HARRISON lags behind

IT WAS a rallying cry which shook the in gender corridors of power and had the men of government quaking in their Victorian boots. balance The shout of “Votes for Women” was once enough to have hundreds branded terrorists and thrown in jail, where they breakdown were subjected to the most brutal of treatment. JODY HARRISON It was also a slogan which changed the course of British history and paved the way THE Scottish Parliament recently for women to cast their ballots in national passed legislation requiring that the elections for the first time following the gender balance on the boards of all The Representation of People Act which public bodies be split evenly was passed 100 years ago today. between men and women. And while it seems strange looking back However, despite high hopes that from more enlightened times, that was a Holyrood itself would lead the way, right which came only after a long and the breakdown of MSPs has stub- bitter battle between women and the state. bornly refused to bend towards Spearheaded first by the National Union parity. of Women’s Suffrage Societies, the Despite three women leading movement took a hard edge in 1903 when parties going into the last election Emmeline Pankhurst founded a new two years ago, 45 women MSPs – organisation, the Women’s Social and 34.9 per cent – were returned to Political Union (WSPU). seats in the fifth Scottish Parlia- However, that was not votes for all ment, the exact same proportion as women – but instead a privileged few, who 2011 and a fall from 2003. owned property and were aged over 30. Both Scottish Labour and the Suffragette expert Sarah Pedersen, SNP, the two biggest parties going Professor of Communication and Media at into the election at the time, fielded Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, more than 40 per cent female candi- explains: “They wanted some to get the dates, yet this could not prop up a vote and then for those women to go on falling level of participation at the and campaign for ways to change things for sharp edge of Scottish politics. their poorer, working-class sisters.” Research by academics Meryl To secure the vote, the WSPU adopted Kenny, Fiona Mackay and Cera many tactics, but the greatest headline- „„ Suffragettes show their defiance after being released from Holloway Prison in 1908. Many would have endured harrowing conditions while in jail. Murtagh of the University of Edin- grabber was their policy of direct action, burgh, found that the stagnation involving vandalism, arson and bombings. was down to the Scottish Conserv- Letter boxes were burned, while shop atives unexpectedly strong perfor- and business windows were smashed mance across Scotland. during demonstrations. Targets included Only around 19 per cent of Scot- places where the rich, and especially tish Conservative candidates were wealthy men, would gather with cricket women, and one of their regional pavilions and horse racing tracks burnt lists – the Highlands and Islands – and destroyed. was men-only. In Scotland golf courses were particular Top list places were also predom- targets of the Suffragettes, who used acid inantly taken by men, with the to write “Votes for Women” on the greens party’s North East Scotland list of many clubs in constituencies belonging returning four male MSPs, while to members of the ruling Liberal party. West Scotland included more The authorities response was draconian, candidates named “Maurice” who with more than 1,000 women arrested and were both elected, than it did jailed where they were denied the status of women. political prisoners. When many went on Six Conservative women candi- hunger strike, they were force-fed with a dates were elected, but as the party tube pushed either down their throat or „„ Former Suffragettes Janet Barrowman, left, and - „„ Margaret Thatcher became the UK’s first woman prime minister in more than doubled its seats, only 19 their nose, leaving many with poor health Anderson in 1949. Both were sent to Holloway Prison in 1912. 1979, 61 years after women were given the right to vote. per cent of Conservative MSPs are for the rest of their lives. women, while the Liberal In the end, it was the conflagration of the Democrats returned no women, First World War which ushered in the would say that the Act was a thank-you for as forcefully, and they did not get the vote for the UK to see Margaret Thatcher having effectively de-selected their greatest change. In 1914 the Suffragettes women’s tireless service during the war, until 1945.” become the first woman Prime Minister in one sitting female MSP, Alison suspended their campaign in the national but it’s not as clear-cut as that. The When the right to vote was granted in 1979. Yet, although 100 years have passed, McInnes. interest, and many women found Suffragettes were not going to go away and There was a 1918, women were also allowed to stand the gender balance at Westminster has The Greens were the only party themselves taking up roles in the there was a fear that violent protest would for Parlament, although Constance never reached parity, and it remains a to have 50 per cent of their lists workplace vacated by men departing to the resume now that the war was over.” fear violent Markievicz, the first female MP, did not matter for debate if women’s fight for full topped by women, but in the end front lines in France. She added: “No Government wants to protest take up her seat because she represented equality has been achieved. only one of six winning candidates When the conflict came to an end, there say it gave in because of damage to Sinn Féin, a party which refuses to Ms Pedersen said: “What you have to were female. was little appetite on the behalf of the property and the threat of arson, and the would recognise the British Parliament. understand is that the S uffragettes were Ranked internationally, the Government to deny women further, or to Suffragettes were a terrorist organisation, resume Nancy Astor would be the first woman first-wave feminists, the second wave gender balance of the Scottish return to the violent days of the past. but in France women did all the jobs that to be elected to the House of Commons to coming with women’s liberation in the Parliament would sit in the low 30s, Ms Pedersen says: “The Government British women did, but did not campaign sit on the green benches, paving the way 1960s. It’s been a continuous movement.” ahead of England’s 32 per cent, but behind comparable countries such as Iceland (38 per cent), New Zealand (39 per cent) and Finland (42 per cent). Female politicians reflect on the past... and what still needs done Rwanda’s parliament stands at the top of the table on 61 per cent Nicola Sturgeon, SNP leader suffrage was that women would The gender pay gap is an on his boot that was all have benefited from the are still fighting for it, then you and First Minister of Scotland simply want more. The right to indicator that women haven’t yet broken as they sacrifices that our sisters have to take a view that THE centenary of women’s right vote would not quench women’s achieved equal value, while the removed made in previous something radical needs to be to vote in the UK is an occasion thirst for equality, but rather lack of women in senior Margery – generations, Emmeline done. Nowhere is that better for gratitude and admiration for encourage women to enter positions across business, presumably so Pankhurst, Flora demonstrated than recent £500,000 for Suffragettes and Suffragists – a politics and become MPs, even academia, scientific research they didn’t have Drummond, Jennie analysis of current austerity moment to pause and reflect on cabinet ministers. and public life, is a further to hear her Lee and Barbara Castle policy where it shows that women leaders what they achieved. It is also an Happily, the nay-sayers were indicator that something has “dangerous” were women who dared women are disproportionately opportunity to instil a renewed proved entirely correct. stalled. views on equality to challenge the attitudes carrying the burden. of tomorrow sense of determination and Securing the right in 1918 of Despite complex reasons for between men and of their times. If we really want a society that momentum into increasing some women to vote (true this imbalance, there are clearly women. Yet despite huge progress truly respects women, the NICOLA Sturgeon has women’s representation. came a some changes that would go As we celebrate 100 years even in our own time, powerful lawmakers and decision-takers announced a £500,000 fund to While we have come a long decade later) was simply a some way to ensuring greater since the first women won the men still display unacceptable need to stop the warm words drive greater representation of way since 1918, much still staging post on the road to legal numbers of women advancing, right to vote, it’s easy to view the attitudes to women. and apply some real heat to women in Scottish politics in needs to be done, if we are to equality. However, social rather than simply the fight for gender equality as The Harvey Weinstein making it happen. “tribute” to the Suffragettes. have an equal society and equality has been harder to remarkable individual cases of something from the past. In scandal and the debauchery of The First Minister said much create a fairer and more reach. today – those tall poppies we truth, we are far from achieving the so-called President’s Club Kirstene Hair MP, Member of progress had been made since prosperous Scotland for all of can point to, but who are still that goal. Across business, still have the power to shock Parliament for Angus women won the right to vote a us, irrespective of gender. outliers in their fields. politics and the media, power those who believe the battle was AS we mark 100 years since century ago, but stressed that Equality for women is at the The idea of “equal” only exists lies disproportionately in the won years ago. For those who women received the vote, it is more action is needed. heart of my vision for an equal if women are given the same hands of men. The sexism is know differently they were important to reflect upon how far The Scottish Government fund Scotland. One of the first platform to progress, the same often less blatant than it was a simply reminders that we must women have come in politics. will provide grants for local measures I took after I became reward for hard work and the century ago, but this just makes redouble our efforts. Today I am proud to be a initiatives across Scotland to First Minister was to appoint a same treatment in the job as the it harder to tackle. Gender Parliament still reeks of male Member of a Party which encourage women to take up gender-balanced Cabinet man standing next to her. stereotypes, unconscious bias privilege, from its currently has a female political roles and to projects showing we can have women And this is the next fight. and cultural norms still constrain gentlemen’s club styling Prime Minister as commemorating the 100th leaders. Closing the gender pay gap, women in the workplace. and arcane practices well as a female anniversary, including those run Thanks to initiatives gender blind Everyone can do something. to its family-unfriendly Leader in by Women’s Library. introduced by my government recruitment and In our continuing hours, macho Scotland – I’m Speaking ahead of a Holyrood such as 50/50 by 2020, more promotion, battles for gender posturing at the also delighted to debate on a century of women’s than 200 organisations in confronting equality, we stand on despatch box and be part of a Party suffrage, Ms Sturgeon said: Scotland have committed to sexual the shoulders of booing and jeering who have elected “Celebrating the 100th anniversary achieving gender equality on harassment and Margery and her many from the benches. the only two female of women securing the right to their boards – and for the first cracking down fellow Suffragettes. With the vote last week Prime Ministers of our vote is a great occasion. time ever, last year more than on real life and Their motto was ‘Deeds to move out during United Kingdom. “Not only does it remind us of half of public board online misogynistic not Words’. It is our refurbishment this should be a This is also an opportunity not women’s achievements - it is also appointees were women. attacks are the next deeds now that will catalyst to reform these out-of- just to see how far we have a time to inject new momentum I’ve also committed to frontiers in a war that is determine whether gender date practices which simply do come with women in politics but into increasing women’s political playing my part by not yet won. No one change will inequality still plagues society in not reflect our society today. a moment to see where we go representation and supporting becoming a mentor to a make the difference, but we another hundred years. We are winning battles – but from here. That’s why it’s so their contribution to Scottish young woman. I would urge already know many changes we have not yet won the war. important that if you’re a woman political and public life. While we other women in leadership which will help. Lesley Laird, shadow Despite strong and capable who is thinking of standing I have a come a long way since roles to do the same. My We’ve come a long way in a secretary of state for women over generations would urge you to go for it. 1918, much still needs to be done ambition for all our young hundred years, but we’ve still Scotland standing up for their sisters, we The support is here for female if we are to eradicate gender people is that they have a fair some way to go. IT is incredible to think that even are still fundamentally fighting candidates and having more inequality and create a fairer and chance to succeed – and if they with the giant leap towards the same battle. Respect. women representing their more prosperous country. work hard and have ability, Jo Swinson, deputy leader of universal suffrage a century ago, These recent events show communities will ensure that our “By supporting community there’s nothing to stop them the Liberal Democrats several of our young women that culturally, politically and issues are better dealt with here initiatives and women- realising their dreams. It’s up to MY favourite place in Parliament MPs today would still legislatively we still have in the House of Commons. At empowerment projects, we are all of us to make sure this can is the statue of Viscount have been denied much to do. Too many the end of the day, the only way making an important step towards happen. Falkland. In 1909 Margery the vote, which was successful and very for women to be better securing that future. This funding Humes chained herself to it first extended only senior male decision- represented in politics is for will ensure we pay tribute to the Ruth Davidson, leader of while campaigning for women’s to those over 30 makers still think the those with an interest to put their women who fought for the rights Scottish Conservative Party right to vote. I love to take who owned rules of respect do name forward. that women have today, as well as IN the clashes before the visitors there and imagine that property. not apply to them. I am incredibly honoured to playing a part in encouraging the passing of the Representation of little piece of history unfolding The march to When we have had be part of the government of our next generation of women the People Act, one of the on that very spot so many years equality is a journey equal pay laws for UK – a day my grandmother leaders.” reasons given against female ago. You can even see the spur we are still on today. We nearly 50 years, yet women thought she may never see.”

COMMENT AT HERALDSCOTLAND.COM 8 PETER By Lisa O’brien RHODES [email protected] @shropshirestar SADLY, I’ve had no reaction to last Interview week’s piece asking about your expe- riences with the cash-for-cars industry, It’s time to so I can only assume it’s doing a fi ne Suffragettes like were job. The item did, however, fl ush out a imprisoned for their campaigning retired dealer who, back in the 1970s, cheer MP made a living selling Italian cars fresh from the factory. They rusted away al- most as soon as they came off the car

dnesday, February 7, 2018 February dnesday, transporter. He just wanted to apolo- and refl ect gise.

he Shrewsbury and At- SAUERKRAUT is being hailed as a cham MP Daniel Kaw- health food but how many jars lie Tczynski has decided to no unopened in kitchen cupboards? longer rebel against the minor- Lord knows what they use to tight- ity Government of which he is en the lids but I have visions of big, a part. hairy Bavarians swinging on a 20ft He had planned to put his head wrench. When people ask what do above the parapet after becoming you eat Saurkraut with, the answer disillusioned that his local council is a sprained wrist. Shropshire Star We might not get suffi cient funds in its settlement from the Treasury. IN the Beeb’s new shock-horror ghost Mr Kawczynski was not alone in yarn Requiem, Matilda (Lydia Wilson) speaking out against what he saw as a is a brilliant musician who, in mo- parsimonious fi gure and he believes his efforts have led to signifi cant gains for ments of stress or passion, makes the county. manic music with her cello. A cello, We can but applaud his calculated the most ethereal rebellion and if it leads to a better deal, and haunting of many will benefi t. And yet Mr Kawc- all instruments, is zynski will not be surprised that some will greet his pronouncements with a perfectly cast. I pinch of salt. For the proof will be in can’t help think- the pudding and we must wait a while ing how many to fi nd out exactly what he has earned other instruments from the Government. the writer, Kris And he knows that he will face some Mrska, toyed with hostility if Shropshire Council’s next budget results in cuts to frontline ser- before settling on vices. For the electorate of Shropshire the cello. A uku- not only expects results from its elected lele would never representatives, it also demands trans- work. Nor a ka- Matilda (Lydia parency. And while many will allow zoo, trombone, Mr Kawczynski some latitude in doing Wilson) in Requiem deals on the county’s behalf, they will euphonium or big want to see the devil in the detail. bass drum. At times, I found myself Of course, the county’s residents wondering how Matilda’s crazed com- may take a different view. They might MP’s great aunt – positions would sound on the swa- wander why local MPs need to fi ght as nee whistle. Like a chorus of enraged hard as Mr Kawczynski and co and why the Government is not as generous as it Clangers, I fear. might be. We live in a continued age of austerity where the public sector con- ONE reviewer referred to Requiem tinues to shrink. as ‘this fi ne Friday night horror’. We all know that the New Labour Sweet, old-fashioned thing. All six days of state largesse are long gone. episodes are available on iPlayer But many might wish for better State protection when it comes to essential the hero suffragette and I bet half the Beeb’s audience services. has already watched the lot. Spoil- Society at large does not necessar- er alert: the ending may seriously ily wish to see the emergence of Cor- MP Lucy Allan represents Telford in Parliament. One hundred years ago her strain your credulity. bynomics, but there is a broad feeling that the Government could do more to great aunt was instrumental in the fi ght for women to have the right to vote. AGAINST the odds, plastic drinking stimulate investment and protect those straws have emerged as the ultimate in need. In time, we will no doubt learn ears of campaigning fi nally paid Suffrage Societies (NUWSS) committee in 1903, sition to improve the levels of comfort for her in- target of the plastic-pollution cam- paign. The Queen’s royal residenc- precisely what deal Mr Kawczynski off a century ago when women in order to represent the association following mates, including distributing confectionery and has struck and how that helps local es and the Scottish Parliament have over the age of 30 who owned their affi liation. fruit to fellow suffragettes. Janie started a hunger residents. We must congratulate him Y Ms Allan said: “My ancestor, Janie Allan, was strike but ended up being force fed. announced they are no longer using for whatever he has earned, while also property were given the right to vote in one of the more militant suffragettes of the early Ms Allan said: “She was part of a big family of them. And we lesser mortals can now waiting to fi nd out what he has earned. demonstrate our commitment to the At the same time, we might refl ect on the UK. 20th century, and a key fi gure in the National So- high achieving brothers who set up a business whether the Government should do In 1918 the Representation of the People Act ciety for Women’s Suffrage, the Women’s Social that was very successful. Last Straw Campaign by solemnly de- more for society as a matter of course. was passed – and a decade later women over and Political Union, and the subsequent Wom- “I knew all about them and I saw pictures of claring we have banned plastic straws en’s Freedom League. 21 were granted equal voting rights with men. them on the walls and there are books written from our homes. Just hope no-one “Her campaign to get women the vote took Bother with the Since then the has been lowered about them. She never was really referenced in asks embarrassing questions such as even further but getting there was a hard-fought decades to win and involved time in Holloway a) how exactly did you dispose of your Prison where she endured being force fed. any of that. struggle. “I fi nd that really intriguing that somebody who straws? and b) how many times did bad boy bowlers The fi ght for women’s suffrage was led by “It’s hard for us today to imagine women not you fl y last year? Plastic straws may having an equal say in our democracy. We owe should be a role model for future generations is ad boy bowls players and women made famous by their daring stunts, given almost a byline in a book about what other- be ideal accessories for virtue-signal- law-breaking and non-violent forms of protest. Janie and her fellow campaigners a huge debt of jeering supporters are wise was a story about a business family.” ling selfi es but in the great scheme of Many were arrested and jailed, including the gratitude for their persistence and determination. bringing shame to a sport Ms Allan said she would have loved to have met things they add up to tiddly-squit. B leader of the British suffragette movement Em- “Janie’s struggle for equality is inspirational.” that was once considered a bas- meline Pankhurst. In early March 1912, along with over 100 others her great aunt, adding: “To be marching, protest- AS the row over salaries at the tion of civilised behaviour. Telford MP Lucy Allan has spoken about her Janie took part in a window smashing protest in ing, to be involved in violent protest is clearly so Beeb rumbles on, here’s a question. central London. Teams and leagues are being let down great aunt who was a leading Scottish suffra- far removed from what was expected of women Where do you think the BBC gets its She was arrested, tried, and sentenced to four by those whose behaviour would be gette and found herself in prison while fi ghting at that time.” news from? Much of it comes from more in keeping – but still as unaccept- for equality. Janie Allan was born in 1868 into a months in Holloway Prison. Ms Allan was in parliament yesterday, beside able – at late-closing Friday night clubs. BBC minions doing exactly what wealthy Glasgow family that owned the Allan Line Her imprisonment was widely publicised, and Prime Minister Theresa May and Leader of the It is a cause for concern among around 10,500 people from Glasgow signed a pe- you are doing now, poring through administrators who are planning to get shipping company. House of Commons Andrea Leadsom, to mark local, regional and national news- Her great niece, Lucy, was just four-years-old tition to protest for her freedom. the centenary of women getting the right to vote. to grips with the uncouth behaviour of While in prison Janie used her privileged po- papers and lifting likely stories. It is a small but disruptive element. when she died in 1968. She said: “We owe much to one of the ironies of this game that While those guilty of appalling behav- The Telford MP says she the courage of those involved the handsome silver-fox male or the iour are in a minority, action should be is surprised there is so little in the suffrage movement and pert lippy-glossed female who reads taken. And, of course, the respectable known about her within the its right to pay tribute to them. majority will have nothing to fear. family. the TV news from an autocue is Of course, many will be amazed that “We have come a long way, probably earning 10 times as much In May 1902, Janie was in- but there is still more to do. a leisure pursuit that is synonymous strumental in re-founding the as the reporter who uncovered the with gentlemanly veterans has fallen For example, in society, we story in the fi rst place. Inequality is foul of poor conduct. Glasgow branch of the Na- still see disparities in gender tional Society for Women’s not always about gender. It shows that no part of society is pay in many of our public in- Suffrage as the Glasgow and immune from the demon drink and stitutions, and imbalances in AFTER a priceless horde of ancient swift action should be taken to root out West of Scotland Association the trouble-makers. for Women’s Suffrage (GWSA- our education system, in busi- beads and suchlike was stolen from We must never take for granted WS), and was a member of its ness, and in the media. an archaeological trust’s warehouse societal norms that have been hard- executive committee. “Politically, too, we must in Canterbury, a spokesman declared: earned over a long period of time. We She was a signifi cant fi nan- continue to remove barriers to “Their real place is in a museum”. So must remain vigilant and make the cial supporter, and as one of entry and present an environ- why weren’t they in a museum? effort to uphold standards of decency. ment that is welcoming and If bad behaviour happens in bowls, it the GWSAWS vice-presidents she took up a position on the respectful to all.” can happen absolutely anywhere. Janie Allan and Telford’s MP Lucy Allan [email protected] National Union of Women’s 6The Sentinel Tuesday February 6, 2018 thesentinel.co.uk / s e n t i n e l s t a ff s @ S e n t i n e l S t a ff s

THE BIG ISSUE PERSONALLY SPEAKING Joan Wa l l e y – Former MP for Stoke-on- Trent North

WONDER what my own facilities for women. How Do you know a woman with grandma, Annie Pass, times have changed. Iwould have made of my The election of women MPs to invitation to the ‘VOTE 100 the Commons and the way Rece ption’taking place in that women voters have the spirit of the Suffragettes? parliament to celebrate the identified the issues centenary of the first women important to them has meant gaining the right to vote? broader changes through On the 100th anniversary of the day women were first granted the right to vote, Amnesty Born on June 15, 1897, she legislation which have made would have been just 21 when an impact on daily life. International is looking for everyday women who work hard in the community to be some women first got the vote, While women are just as included in its Suffragette Spirit Map of Britain. Richard Ault reports and 31 in 1928 when the right much focused on to vote was extended to international and financial women on the same terms as issues as men, they are as well men. invariably focused on bread Although not involved in any and butter issues like good way in the long-standing health and prosperity for campaign for women to get their families, financial the vote, the lives of her security, housing, education children and grandchildren and the environment. were totally transformed Parliament may have passed forever by the Act of the Equal Pay Act in 1970, Parliament we are celebrating which came into force in 1975, today, and by that which but it is still not fully quickly followed allowing implemented as the BBC women to stand for election to realises to its cost. the House of Commons. But for all the women who By contrast, there were others play a full part in our who made it their life’s work democracy, at work, and at to secure that victory, and local level in residents groups, thanks to local historian as school governors, there are Owen Sloss’s research, we still too many who don’t now have a clearer idea of that register to vote or who have c a m p a i g n’s links to Stoke-on- the vote and just don’t use it. T rent. After the monumental Richard Pankhurst, husband campaign for women to get of Emmeline, was born in the vote, it is galling to speak Stoke-on-Trent, and recorded to women on the doorstep who as living in Hanley near to reel off a long list of things Eagle Street/Ivy House Road that they think are unfair but in the census of 1841. see no connection between Richard went on to become a that unfairness and the hard CAMPAIGN: British suffragette Emmeline Pankhurst being jeered by a crowd in New York in 1911. leading figure in the emerging fought for vote that is now labour movement, becoming a theirs to use. NE hundred years ago today, others –to ensure that you and I, as well best in the background –and it is people staunch advocate of full One hundred years on and it women were finally granted the as future generations, enjoy a fairer, like that who deserved recognition. emancipation for women and is as important as ever to Oright to vote. more equal world. “My grandmother was a very active using his position as a remember the milestone 1918 Now, on the anniversary of the day the “An interactive map, which will launch militant suffragette who threw herself barrister to shape the debate. Act and to follow up with our Representation of the People Act was on International Women’s day, will be a into the cause. Just a small, quiet woman His daughter Sylvia came to own actions. passed, Amnesty International is looking symbol of the suffragette legacy – who played her part in the campaign. She work at Wedgwood as a The upcoming New Victoria for women from Stoke-on-Trent and proudly displaying how far we have come was a remarkable woman.” designer in about 1906, and as Theatre production ‘Votes For North Staffordshire who continue to over the past century, but highlighting Stoke-on-Trent North MP Ruth Smeeth the campaign for universal Wo m e n’opening at the New embody the spirit of the suffragettes who how much life-changing work is still said: “It is incredible that 100 years ago I suffrage and rights for women Vic Theatre on Tuesday made it possible. being carried out today.” wo u l d n’t have been allowed in the at work intensified, she March 6 will keep the memory The charity is creating its Suffragette Some years before the 1918 act building but now I am the third female launched the Women Workers alive. As will other events by Spirit Map of Britain, and it wants granted women the right to vote, MP to represent my seat in Parliament. of England Project to use a the North Staffordshire people to nominate the everyday the words of Hanley’s coroner “But there are still more MPs called collection of artwork Trades Council and plans for campaigners and community were greeted with warm John than there are women. There is still depicting women at work. an event in the Burslem champions who work hard approval when he attacked the some way to go. When the government of 1905- School of Art on March 10. behind the scenes to improve ‘s c re e ch i n g ’suf fragettes, “It is because of extraordinary women 1910 acted to prevent the the lives of others. accusing them of ‘trying to do from all backgrounds that our country suffrage movement from One Show presenter Angellica away with all that is desirable in lives the way it does. promoting public meetings, Bell, pictured, is leading a woman’. “I can think of several extraordinary and indeed The Sentinel was Amnesty International’s search for The opinions of him and others women from our area off the top of my prohibited from reporting on It is galling to speak women who will put the Potteries on like him were cast into the past by the head that are very deserving of such clandestine meetings, the map. Representation of the People Act –yet it recognition, just by doing the same undeterred her sister ‘to women on the She said: “Last century’s suffragettes was not until 1928 that women shared the things they do every day, which make a Christabel spoke in Longton doorstep who reel are today’s women human rights same right to vote as men. big difference.” under the innocuous billing of defenders. Every day they harness their Although women were allowed to vote Joan Walley, who served as Stoke-on- ‘Flower Arranging for off a long list of passionate voices to empower for the first time in 1918, that vote was Trent North MP for 28 years before Younger Women’. things that they communities and create a fairer world. restricted to those over the age of 30 and retiring, said: “When women finally got Both would have known “This is why Amnesty and The Sentinel only if they owned land or property, or the vote, the campaign for equality and prominent trade unionist think are unfair but wants readers to nominate the incredible were married to a man who did. equal rights didn’t end. leader and suffragist Sarah see no connection women –from students to shopkeepers, By contrast, all men over the age of 21 “The multitude of women who go above Bennet, who lived at 196 office workers to OAPs –who are making were allowed to vote, regardless of status. and beyond every day to change their Waterloo Road. Sarah stood up between that a real difference in their local area. Barbara Andrew’s grandmother, Thirza lives and to make the world a more equal for what she believed in even unfairness and the “They might have stood up to bullies, Cove, was a suffragette who went to place, carry on the fight to this day. if it did mean imprisonment. helped the homeless, aided refugees, prison for her beliefs. “When we see inequality rising The actual campaign for votes hard fought for vote worked to protect the environment or Amnesty International member through austerity and basic human for women had begun decades campaigned for better access to Barbara, of Hartshill, said: “I will say one rights suffering around the world, then earlier in 1832, when women that is now theirs to healthcare. The list goes on. hip-hooray, but I will save my that fight for equality is as important first petitioned parliament. use “Every time these women have spoken celebrations for 2028, the 100th today as it was in 1918.” It is generally considered that up, they’ve helped make life better for anniversary of when women were the contribution women made allowed to vote on the same terms IHOW TO NOMINATE: To nominate to our society during the First as men. an amazing woman in your local area, World War was what It is inconceivable in the “In 1918, it was a deep visit www.amnesty.org.uk/ ultimately tipped the balance. modern world that in living’ tuesday disappointment to many women suffra gettespirit. When I was first elected to memory there was a time because it only gave the vote to All women must have carried out work to parliament in 1987, I was one when women did not have the women over the age of 30, and then help others in their local area within the of just 41 women in a vote. But for all the gains that with conditions. But it was a last 10 years. All successful nominees will parliament of 650 members. It have been won, there must be bmw 1 series significant step. be contacted to give consent prior to being was totally male dominated, no let up in the continuing “There are some people whose placed on the Suffragette Spirit Map of run like a public school, fight for equality. for one lucky winner names are in the spotlight, but Britain. operating with anti-social It is in all our interests to + there are many, many more who This campaign has been funded by hours often with all night create an inclusive society for every ticket in this have just worked away doing their Pe o p l e ’s Postcode Lottery. sittings, and without even the and build a representative £25,000 winning postcode bare minimum of workplace democratic parliament. BN23 7LQ Eastbourne Have your say... thesentinel.co.uk WEATHER AND TRAVEL : PAGE 13 postcodelottery.co.uk/results THE PRESS AND JOURNAL Wednesday, February 7, 2018 NEWS 17

PUBLICLIFE APPEAL May in ‘Women’s ‘decency, place respect’ to take plea for direct politics action’

BY SAM LISTER BY ED CARTY

Theresa May has warned The granddaughter of one it is time to “take a stand of Ireland’s foremost suffra- for decency, tolerance gettes has said it is women’s and respect” following place to take direct action increasing levels of abuse for equality. and intimidation in public Dr Micheline Sheehy life. Skeffington said her grand- In a speech to mark mother, Hanna Sheehy the centenary of some Skeffington, would be women securing the vote, surprised by how little the prime minister at- has been achieved in tacked the “coarsening and terms of equal rights for toxifying” of political de- women in the last 100 bate. years. Claire Kober, Labour The academic re-enacted leader of Haringey coun- her grandmother smashing cil, announced last week the windows of the former that she is quitting over seat of British government “sexism” and “bullying” rule in Ireland to mark by hard-left supporters of the 100th anniversary of Jeremy Corbyn. women getting the vote in Mrs May said: “It is a Ireland. depressing coincidence “We haven’t got parity, that in the week we we haven’t got equal pay, are celebrating the we’re not equal in the gov- first inclusion of women in Fight for the right: 100 Students from Royal Holloway, University of London, re-create a protest march ernment,” Dr Sheehy Skeff- the democratic process, one by suffragettes in Egham, Surrey, yesterday to mark the 100th anniversary of the ington said. of the most senior women years of suffrage for Representation of the People Act 1918 which widened suffrage by enfranchising “We do not command the in local government has, in women over 30 who met minimum property qualifications. Women were still not respect we should. effect, been hounded out women celebrated politically equal to men (who could vote from the age of 21) until the passing of “I think she would be a of office.” the Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act 1928. little bit surprised.” DEBATE Gender Rudd to ‘look at’ pardons equality ‘unwon cause’ for locked-up suffragettes

Gender equality remains an Activism: Home secretary weighs up arson and violence cases Thorny legal unwon cause 100 years on from the first women secur- definitions BY AINE FOX ing the right to vote in the She said: “I have seen executive of the Fawcett A pardon is defined UK, Nicola Sturgeon has this campaign, I completely Society, named after suf- as “the remitting or said. The home secretary has understand where it’s com- fragist Millicent Fawcett, forgiving of a crime”, The first minister said it said she will “look at” calls ing from, the extraordinary said: “Suffragette activism according to Stroud’s was the duty of this genera- to pardon suffragettes who pained campaign, violence was for a noble cause and Judicial Dictionary. tion to win the battle for were treated as criminals that these women went many of them became po- It also says a par- equality. during their fight for the through in order to deliver litical prisoners. don is “a remission In a debate at Holyrood right to vote. the vote, which has been “It would be a fitting of guilt: an amnesty marking the centenary, Amber Rudd stressed it of such benefit to us for tribute to pardon them is oblivion”, meaning Ms Sturgeon said was “complicated” when generations. now. it forgives the crime that it was also a looking at cases of arson “So I will take a look at “They made such sacri- and excuses the pen- moment to look to the fu- and violence, but promised it, but I must be frank, it fices so that we could all alty, but it does not ture. to analyse individual pro- is complicated because if enjoy the rights we have Amber Rudd: “benefit” Ruth Davidson: “support” expunge guilt for the Ms Sturgeon told posals. you’re going to give a le- today. offence. MSPs: “Some women se- The government is fac- gal pardon for things like “In any meaningful sense But Stroud’s also cured the parliamentary ing calls to pardon female arson and violence it’s but as I said, I would like She said: “Voting was of the word, they were not says that a “free par- vote a century ago, women activists jailed before the not as straightforward as to take a look at individual a value judgment, not an criminals.” don” forgives the of- have had equal vot- implementation of the Rep- people think it might be, proposals to see what can intrinsic right. While suffragists used fence and removes the ing rights to men for 90 resentation of the People but I will certainly look at be done.” “That inequality is one of peaceful methods to guilt and conviction. years, but the uncomfort- Act 100 years ago. proposals.” Scottish Conservative the reasons why I support achieve women’s suffrage, By this, it seems that able truth is that gender Ms Rudd said Turing’s She added: “I think leader Ruth Davidson has calls by family members to the suffragettes employed it would be necessary equality is still an unwon Law, which pardoned thou- there is something differ- joined others in pushing offer a posthumous pardon more militant tactics in for the Queen to issue cause. sands of gay and bisexual ent about them but I’m just for pardons, saying the to those suffragettes their campaign. a free pardon to exon- “An unwon cause that it men convicted of now- pointing out, unfortunately, suffragettes were simply charged with righting that Many went on to be erate the suffragettes is the duty of our genera- abolished sexual offences, the practical reality of by- righting the wrong of vot- wrong.” jailed, including leader of all blame. tion to win.” had set a precedent. passing the law in this way, ing inequality. Sam Smethers, chief Emmeline Pankhurst.