On the centenary of the passage of the Representation of the People Act which gave women the vote for the first time, Nus Ghani joined in the #Vote100 celebrations taking place in Parliament and across the country.
In celebrating the heroism of the suffrage movement, Nus is encouraging more women to stand for public office. As a society, in the last century we have made a considerable amount of progress, with 208 females MPs in the House of Commons.
There is, however, more to do. That is why the Government has announced £5 million to help celebrate this milestone and to encourage more women to engage in our democracy. It will fund activities in the cities and towns with strong links to the campaign for women’s suffrage, and allow local communities to apply for money to run celebratory events.
Later in the year, Nus will be hosting an event in Wealden celebrating the local suffragettes and suffragists who have contributed so much to the fabric of our society, changing the lives of women in Hailsham, Crowborough, Uckfield and the villages across East Sussex. Any local community groups who are interested in helping with this project should get in touch with Nus at [email protected].
Commenting on the anniversary, Ms Ghani said: “100 years on from women getting the vote, women candidates and female MPs still face abuse and threats for standing for public office. This should not deter girls and women considering entering politics. I will continue to champion and mentor women and girls from Wealden and ask them to get in touch with me if they want support to enter Parliament.
“Those who fought to establish the right for women to be able to vote and run for office did so in the face of extreme adversity and resistance. Their perseverance and courage is to be admired, and a hundred years later the suffragettes are still inspiring young girls across the country.
“I am privileged to serve alongside so many talented female MPs, not just from East Sussex but from all parts of the country, from all political parties, and from all backgrounds.
“I want to see more women in politics. That is why I am celebrating this milestone and using it as an opportunity to encourage more women to stand for public office.”
