Last Wednesday 14th January Dulwich Books launched their new event series at The Bedford in Balham.
The evening was a selection of readings from and a panel discussion about a new collection of essays entitled I Call Myself a Feminist. Through a carefully selected collection of personal accounts the book explores the continuation of the movement into the 21st Century and what that oh so loaded word ‘Feminism’ means to young women today.
Hosted by Lennie Goodings from Virago Press (the publisher of work by women authors for the last 40 years) the panel was made up of editors Amy Annette and Martha Moss and contributors Caroline Kent and Hajar Wright. Artist Martha is the daughter of best-selling novelist Kate Mosse who also appeared to chat about intergenerational feminism and join the discussion after the readings.
All the readings were thought provoking for different reasons. Amy took comedy as her starting point using a blend of humour and healthy optimism to invoke an inspiring call for a change in attitudes towards girls minds and bodies whilst Hajar drew on the testimony of her sister to describe the difference between a boys up bringing and her own within a strict Muslim family. Caroline’s piece was particularly moving because she laid bare the story of her rebellious past whilst explaining how she came through it. Offering a snapshot of this diverse and wide ranging book each author revealed a strikingly personal response to the subject.
Kate and Martha Mosse (Right) Join Lennie Goodings for a mother daughter chat about intergenerational feminism
The readings were greeted with huge enthusiasm by the packed out audience which included many who had already read the book as well as those who went home eagerly clutching a new copy. The debate raised many people to their feet to voice burning opinions and the panellists concluded their discussion by responding to the question ‘What 1 Thing would improve the world for women?’ Answers ranged from universal equality in Education for girls to an increased understanding amongst employers for the needs of mothers in the workplace. One of the best suggestions of the night was that Gender Equality should be taught in all UK schools.
Other contributors to the book include author of Everyday Sexism, Laura Bates and Laura Pankhurst the great great grandaughter of Emmeline Pankhurst who is a campaigner in her own right.
The overwhelming message of the event (and the book) is that feminism is both for everybody and can mean very different things to different people. It also exists for a very good reason. Gender inequality is sadly alive and kicking in the 21st Century but so, thankfully, is a movement full of enthusiasm, intelligence, righteous anger and energy.
The next event from Dulwich Books at The Bedford will be no less controversial. Join them on 11th Feb, 7.30pm for Growing Up Communist with David Aaronovitch and Jo McMillan.
