From photography to fabric shops, theatre to birth support – celebrating women's contributions in Govanhill
And what's happening around the Southside this weekend for international women's week and mother's day
Govanhill has an incredible history of strong women standing up to injustices and demanding better. Whether that’s women demanding the right to enjoy a drink in the Penny Farthing, or those who were instrumental in the development of the Govanhill housing association and development trust.
Now, there are countless women-led community organisations, social enterprises and groups all making a huge impact of the lives they work with. But there are also all the women who don’t get mentioned – those supporting families, caring for loved ones while often facing barriers and challenging circumstances.
Women’s contribution to society has too often been ignored or overlooked. Big changes need to happen to address the many inequalities women face, whether it’s the gender pay gap, the prevalence of violence women face, of the more insidious everyday sexism that we all encounter.
Today may be International Women’s Day, but it’s important to take the time to recognise – and challenge – these inequalities every day. In particular, being aware of those additional barriers that those women who experience multiple discrimination may face.
I also want to give a special shout out to the incredible women on our team. Samar and Devon joined us last year as trainee journalists, and between them bring so much to the magazine with their enthusiasm, perspectives and talent. We were also delighted to welcome Catherine earlier this year who has made a huge impact in looking after our newsroom space and made our window look so striking.
-Rhiannon
Our latest articles celebrating women’s contributions…
Ruya: A kaleidoscope of cultures through the lens of four friends
A new photography exhibition on at Trongate 103 has been created by a group of women from four different countries. The works show the development of techniques to portray cultural heritage, representation and memories of home.
Resistance and community: Govanhill Pool and my mother’s fabric shop
For International Women’s Week, anti-racist campaigner and Southside resident, Zamard Zahid shared the story of her mother's fabric shop and how it was a community hub for South Asian women for decades.
Barrowland Ballet Presents Chunky Jewellery at Tramway
This new play delves into friendship, womanhood, and motherhood, weaving the creators’ personal experiences into a universal narrative. Premiering at Tramway on 9 March , it’s an exploration of life’s complexities, with special consideration of the complexities of being a woman.
More than a shop’: taking a sustainable approach to childrenswear
In a bid to tackle clothing waste, there has been a rising in circular fashion outlets, including ApparelXchange which focuses on childrenswear in Glasgow Southside
Amma Birth Companions win award for supporting pregnant women
Amma Birth Companions – a Glasgow based charity that supports pregnant women in vulnerable circumstances – has won a prestigious national award for their work.
What’s happening for IWD and Mother’s Day this weekend?
Feminist Tabletop Football on Saturday 9 March, 1-3pm at Rumpus Room, is a cooperative tabletop game played on a hexagonal board between three teams. It uses football as an platform to delve into intersectional feminism.
A talk to amplify Palestinian women’s voices on Friday 8 March, 5-6pm, in front of Burgh Hall. Scottish Palestinian, Salsabil El Awaisi will share testimonies from other Palestinian women and their creative work.
Chunky Jewellery on Saturday 9 March, 2pm and 7:30pm at Tramway. Performed by two friends, the show depicts a year of their life through dance and song through themes of motherhood and friendship.
Family Cycle Sessions (Children and Mothers) every Saturday, 9:30 and 10:45. Join Women on Wheels for a family cycling session that caters to all ages and abilities. Come by to learn how to cycle and improve bike handling skills with child-friendly equipment.
International Women’s Day – Queens of Scotland on 9 and 10 March at various locations including Tramway. A three-day boot camp led by teachers with different skill sets will share their knowledge forpeople who want to explore their femininity and network with others.
Mother’s Day Workshop on Saturday 9 March, 10:30-12pm at Merry-Go-Round. An event for mothers, carers and children. Enjoy tummy time and gentle yoga stretches with your baby as well as light refreshments and photos with your young ones.
FONDS is a new photography exhibition, film and podcast that is available to view Wednesday-Sunday, 11-5pm at Tramway's new Community Gallery space. It tells the stories of Govanhill through some of its residents' most treasured objects, including how we connect with our mothers and family across distance and time.
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Our next magazine is going to be around the theme of community activism. Got an idea for a story you’d like to write? Or something we should feature? Email newsroom@greatergovanhill.com