HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY - WE THINK BACK TO 1909 WHEN IT ALL STARTED

As the Archivist to the Society of Women Writers and Journalists who met in Council in London yesterday, I can tell you that we are also celebrating International Women's Day around the world. This is traditionally marked on 8 March. In some regions, the day lost its political flavour and became simply an occasion for people to express their love for women in a way somewhat similar to a mixture of Mother's Day and Valentine's Day - what a loving combination!

Yours truly and Victoria Wood - our SWWJ Patron

Around the world these days,  focus of the anniversary ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation, and love towards women's achievements in the past (and of course in the present). Currently writing about the suffragettes in our own SWWJ organisation which will mark our own 122nd birthday on 1 May. We enjoyed the most wonderful party at Stationers' Hall in London on our 120th and we welcome writers from around the globe.  SWWJ aims to encourage literary achievement, to uphold professional standards, to promote social contact with fellow writers and to defend the dignity and prestige of the writing profession in all its aspects.Check us out at www.swwj.co.uk and join us?