It is well known today that Iran is one of the most dangerous countries for LGBTQ+ people. However, thanks to the actions and determination of one woman, Maryam Khatoon Molkara, Iran now carries out more sex reassignment surgeries than all but one country.
twentieth century women
Celebrating Dalit Women
Dalit, from the Sanskrit दलित, meaning ‘broken’ or ‘scattered’ is the lowest stratum of the Indian caste system. Otherwise referred to as ‘untouchables’, its people exist outside the traditional hierarchy. Dalit women are said to be one of the world’s most oppressed groups.
Olive Morris – Still Fighting
Despite being twice included on lists of influential Black Britons, Olive Morris is still frequently overlooked in British history. Still, she achieved much in her tragically short life and her legacy remains alive today.
Palestine, Women, and Resistance
Women have been part of Palestinian resistance and its fight for liberation since its inception. They protested alongside the men during the British occupation, the protected their families after Israel took over in 1948, and they have long been active participants in politics. Here are nine stories of such women.
Claudia Jones – Out From the Shadows
Now resting in the shadows of Karl Marx's giant tomb, Claudia Jones was an activist and pioneer who left no mere shadow on British culture, and it is time to bring her out into the light.
Ragnhild Kåta
Ragnhild Tollefsdatter Kåta was born on 23rd May 1873 with five fully-functioning senses. Aged just three-and-a-half, she lost four of these, yet she would grow into a talented woman who was an international inspiration.
Women of the Black Country
The stories of nine Black Country Women, specially researched for Black Country Day 2023.
Sisters: Las Mariposas
The International Day for Elimination of Violence Against Women takes place every year on 25th November. The date was chosen in honour of Patria, Minerva, and María Teresa Mirabal, commonly known as ‘Las Mariposas’, three sisters from the Dominican Republic who were assassinated for their resistance against Rafael Trujillo, the then-dictator of the country.
Women Who Fought Back: The Igbo Women’s War
In 1929, one of the first major acts of protest against British colonialism in West Africa broke out in Nigeria. In colonialist terms, the conflict became known as the Aba Riots, an attempt to reduce the action to the hysterical efforts of a few, removing women from it altogether. In the Igbo language, it is Ogu Umunwanyi – the Women’s War.
Jewish women resisters of World War Two
The resistance activities of Jewish women during World War Two have faded from historical memory. Yet they played as big a part as any in the various underground movements and were all exceptionally brave. Instagram's ten slide limit means I can only highlight a few of these women, but I would encourage you to look up the many stories online.