On Monday 11th February, we were privileged to welcome Dr Helen Pankhurst, author and great-granddaughter of suffrage leader Emmeline Pankhurst, who spoke as part of our Women of Influence Lecture Series.
Dr Pankhurst, leading women’s rights activist and author of Deeds Not Words, the Story of Women’s Rights, Then and Now, gave an in-depth account of her upbringing in Ethiopia and the infamous Pankhurst women who influenced her personal interests and career. She reminded girls of the historical significance of the women’s rights movement, given that last year was the centenary of some women getting the parliamentary vote.
Following the inspiring assembly, Dr Pankhurst generously agreed to talk to our Year 9 girls. She discussed a number of topical issues including gender pay, women in politics and the sexualisation and exploitation of women in the media. She encouraged discussion among students and answered all of our pressing questions.
