Celebrating Founders of Women's Activism in Britain

Welcome to our virtual event, Celebrating Our Forebearers!

Join us on Thursday 23 May 2024 at 13:00 GMT+1 (British Summertime), as we honor and pay tribute to the women who paved the way for us. This illustrated talk by renowned Historian Dr Sue Anderson-Faithful, brings to life inspirational individuals involved in the early years of the National Union of Women Workers (later known as the National Council of Women Great Britain). Focusing on the period of 1888 to 1895, this talk introduces key characters, notes their existing network connections and explores their interests in political and public life beyond morality.

Women activists in the early NUWW were prominent socially, in philanthropy, education, the professions and politics ‘at home’ and overseas. They represent differing religious allegiances, diverse political perspectives and varying stances on suffrage. Collectively they illustrate the vibrancy of women’s networks and ambitious scope of activism prior to gaining the parliamentary franchise.

Don't miss out on this chance to learn more about the rich history that shaped both our organisation and women's activism in Great Britain. Let's come together to celebrate and remember the contributions of those who came before us.

Image: Lady Laura Ridding a founding activist in the NUWW

Dr Sue Anderson-Faithful

Sue Anderson-Faithful is a Senior Lecturer in the Institute of Education at the University of Winchester, where she teaches history and the pedagogy of history. She is a member of the History of Education Society executive and is joint editor of the History of Education Researcher. Her research interests are in the history of women’s education in the latter nineteenth and early twentieth century, with a focus on organisations and philanthropy, notably the Mothers’ Union and Girls’ Friendly Society.

Sue is the author of Mary Sumner: Mission, Education and Motherhood- Thinking a Life with Bourdieu (Lutterworth 2018), and is a contributor to the Bloomsbury Cultural History of Education in the Age of Empire, Vol V. Her work has appeared in History of Education, Revista Brasileira de História da Educação, Foro de Education and Women’s History Review.

Sue is currently focusing on the life and activism of Lady Laura Ridding a founding activist in the NUWW.

Further details of Sue's research interests, publications and projects can be found at https://www.sueanderson-faithful.uk or contact s.anderson-faithful@outlook.com.