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Feminist events in Bristol
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Friday 8th March 2013, 7pm
Screening of "All Our Lives (De Toda La Vida)" by Bristol Solidarity Federation
This 1986 documentary, directed by Lisa Berger and Carol Mazer, tells the story of Mujeres Libres, the first independent women’s organisation in Spain. All the women in the film were members of the CNT and actively participated in the social revolution during the Spanish civil war. Though as Suceso Portales puts it, they “weren't fighting a war in the ordinary sense of one power against another: we were fighting to create a more just and humane society.” Spanish women at this time found themselves bound by the “triple enslavement of women to ignorance, to capital and to men”. Women were effectively subordinated to men and this even extended to the revolutionary movement itself. The work of the Mujeres Libres was not to solely focus on empowering women to participate in the social struggle but to also be a constant challenge to the male dominance of the movement.
The documentary is 60 minutes long and will be followed by a discussion of the film and its relevance to the position of women in Britain today
Bristol YHA, 4 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA.
Tuesday 15th Januaury 2013
What the Frock! Fundraising Event Night
What The Frock! will be hosting a special fundraising quiz night to support the Women & Poverty event at Bristol City Council on International Women's Day 8th March 2013.
As with previous WTF! quizzes, there will be a maximum of four people per team (if you have more people, just make up more teams!) and it costs £3 per person to enter the quiz. There will be fabulous prizes for all of the winning quiz team, plus medals! To avoid disappointment, please register here for free.
There will also be a prize raffle - tickets will be 50p each, or a strip of five for £2. Prizes so far include signed Helen Dunmore books, a meal for two at The Square Club, What The Frock! tickets, Fawcett Society goodies, Alistair Sawday's travel books, and much more.
Every single penny raised from this event will go towards the costs of the Women & Poverty event. Any money leftover once conference costs are met, it will be donated to a relevant charity and no profits will be made from this event.
The Big Chill, 15 Small St, Bristol . Doors from 7.30pm. Quiz 8pm. CLose 10.30pm
Saturday 8th December, 2012
Action against cuts to VAWG services
All over the UK on 8th December, feminist and UK Uncut activists are taking to the street to protest the cuts to domestic abuse services, which have had 31% of their funding cut. According to the British Crime Survey, 1.2 million women report domestic abuse each year, around 80,000-100,000 women are raped and every day, 230 women are turned away from refuges that could save their lives, because there simply isn't enough room. This year, a woman has been murdered every 3.3 days as a result of domestic abuse. These cuts are killing women.
UK Uncut protesters will be occupying Starbucks, a notorious tax dodger. Whilst domestic abuse services are brutally cut, Starbucks can get away with not paying the taxes that would save these services (more info).
In solidarity with UK Uncut, Bristol Feminist Network will be flyering outside Starbucks in Broadmead with info about the cuts to services, and what they can do to tell the council we will not accept any cuts. Please join us and stand in solidarity with activists up and down the UK.
DOWNLOAD FLYER
Starbucks in Broadmead, Bristol , 12.00
Tuesday 4th December 2012
WomanKind Worldwide and global feminism
BFN are pleased to welcome a representative from WomanKind Worldwide to talk about the fantastic and inspiring activism of feminists across the world. We will be hearing about the work feminists are doing in peace activism, anti-poverty work and in the fight for gender equality. We'll be discussing how we can reach out across borders to stand in solidarity with our sisters all over the the globe.
Hydra Bookshop, Old Market St, Bristol. 18.30 - 20.30.
Sunday 18th November 2012
Pussy Riot fundraiser
Following the arrest and sentencing of members of Russian punk group, Pussy Riot, for the crime of "hooliganism driven by religious hatred", there have been outcries from many corners of the Western World, in particular from musicians & artists. In Bristol we will be showing our solidarity, raising funds and awareness with an evening of events instigated by outspoken supporter & friend of the women, Bristol MP Kerry McCarthy.
The focus of the event will be live music with three artists lined up to play including local favourites Empty Pools, She Makes War and Josie Ghost. Plus an exclusive screening of a short film about Pussy Riot, based on events in parliament & including clips of the women. There will also be stalls, DJs, discussion and the usual goodness of The Lanes - cocktails, large smoking area, bowling etc.
The Lanes, Nelson St, Bristol from 7pm. Entry £3
Saturday 17th November 2012
Violence Against Women and Girls,
Open Space event
BFN is dedicated to tackling and ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in all forms, including rape, sexual assault, physical, emotional, financial abuse, FGM, forced marriage, harassment. We are also concerned with wider cultural violence, such as cultural femicide, that oppress women and silence our voices. For more details, please read and contribute to our Position Paper statement on VAWG.
The BFN VAWG Open Space event aims to bring together local and national activist groups to discuss and share plans for tackling VAWG. As cuts continue to decimate our support services, we're facing a crisis which is eroding hard won gains in the work to end VAWG.
An Open Space event involves bringing organisations and individuals together to talk and plan actions. If you would like your organisation to be represented at the event, and to talk about the issues you work on with other feminists, please email us.
Please note that in order to prioritise safe, accessible space for women and girls to discuss violence, this event is women only and open to all self identifying women.
Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, Bristol , 11.00
Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Kyriarchy and intersectional feminism
Feminism must concern the social experiences of all self-defining women, but has this always been the case? For a long time feminism has been seen as a movement led by and for white, middle-class, cis- gendered women, but feminism has always upheld important initiatives and influence generated by queer, women of colour, disabled and working women. The purpose of this workshop/discussion will be to show why an intersectional feminism that takes into account multiple oppressions such as racism, homophobia, disablism etc is fitting and beneficial for us all.
Malcolm X Centre, City Road, Bristol , 19.00
Wednesday 11th July 2012
Feminist Literature and Publishing
Oxfam Cotham Bookshop have invited BFN to run an evening as part of their literature festival. We'll be talking about the publishing of The Light Bulb Moment, complete with a reading, before having a wider discussion around feminist publishing and writing, and what's next for feminist books and the movement. It promises to be a really inspiring event and we're really thrilled that Oxfam want us to be part of their programme.
Oxfam Bookshop, Cotham Hill, Bristol. 19.30
Thursday 7th June 2012
Discussion on sexual harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace hasn't gone away. Laws are in place, the Anita Hill trial happened, and still women experience it. From sexist jokes, inappropriate touching, displaying porn materials or general bullying - when women enter the workplace they should not have to put up with it. Many women end up having to leave their jobs, thanks to a culture of disbelief, male privilege and lack of legal support.
And it isn't just at work. Sexual harassment happens in schools, colleges and univiersities. And it happens when we walk down the street. But it isn't a fact of life, it isn't inevitable and we can fight it. This discussion group invites us to share our experiences of harassment in a safe and supportive space, whilst we also plan actions we can take to ensure that when it happens, the perperators are held responsible.
Cafe on the Square, Queen's Square, Bristol. 19.00 - 21.00
Monday 4th June 2012
Where are the women? They're at the Cube!
BFN invites you to an evening to celebrate the creative and activist achievements of Bristol's women. We'll be joined by Womankind and speakers Finn Mackay and Shabana Kausor, who will talk about their work in tackling violence against women and girls. We'll hear and see art and poetry created in survivors workshops organised by artist Jan Martin. And we'll be treated to performances and artist showreels by Shagufta Iqbal, Töve Andrews, Layne Arlina, Abigail Cooke, Natalia Komis, Katie Ness, Ria Parfitt and Clare Tigoglu and many more. We look forward to seeing you there. Artists booked and arranged by Bristol's Layne Arlina.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
19.30 - 21.30, Tuesday 15th May 2012
The Light Bulb Moment
Book launch and panel discussion on the future of feminism. The Light Bulb Moment is an anthology of stories from feminists across the UK, sharing the moment they realised they were feminists.
The second half of the evening will be a panel discussion on the Future of Feminism, including:
Join us at this event as we reflect on feminism's past and celebrate and discuss the movement's future. In collaboration with the Festival of Ideas and the Watershed.
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. Tickets can be bought through the Watershed.
The Watershed, Bristol.
Friday 27th April 2012
Feminist Friday - lad's mag action!
After discussions at our membership meeting, we decided to organise more direct actions and thought a good place to start would be Feminist Friday action against lads mags. To get involved please meet up by the Neptune fountain in the city centre at 5.30pm with paper bags at the ready to go into shops together and tackle misogyny together. (and how about a feminist social afterwards?). All you have to do is:
Bristol Vity Centre, from 17:30
Tuesday 17th April 2012
Women supporting refugee women
Last year the government rejected the EU directive that recognises that women may seek asylum on the grounds of gender based persecution, including rape, FGM, forced marriage, so-called honour based violence and other forms of gender based violence. Women seek asylum in the UK for all sorts of reasons and it's important to recognise gender based violence. On their arrival in the UK, women are not believed, they are left on the streets, they are left destitute, or they are put into detention in Yarls Wood.
This discussion group will explore the issues facing refugee women n the UK, and try and plan actions for what we can do to campaign on this issue.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
Thursday 29th March 2012
Workshop: Letter writing to our daughters This brand new project is a blog aimed at creating an online resource and community, and eventually forming the basis for a book. This workshop is an opportunity to write your own letter to your 'daughters'. Exploring themes that celebrate what it is to be female, it is a chance to share our wisdom, humour and guidance, and to express our wishes for our 'daughters' (defined as any girl child we choose to love unconditionally - which means, in this context, all of them).
Our 'daughters' are the next generation of women; if you could give the gift of an idea to them all, what would you say? What would you teach them? What would you wish for them? Expect laughter, honesty and a bit of soul-searching. Letters will only be used on the blog with your consent, and anonymous contributions are welcome. For further details: www.lettersforourdaughters.com
This event is for women only.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Thursday 22nd March 2012
Workshop and presentation on FGM Please join BFN and Hiba, who is part of a project co-organised by the Home Office, Daughters of Eve and various other organisations to empower young women around issues on FGM and violence against women and girls.
Please note this is a woman-only event and is open to all self identifying women. This is to ensure it is a safe and accessible space. However we hope to run more events on FGM that will be mixed, and all of our previous events on FGM have been mixed.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
Tuesday 21st February 2012
Film and Feminism
Despite 51% of cinema goers in the UK being women, the industry, both UK and worldwide, is heavily dominated by men. From the people who make them, to those who review and choose to distribute them, our choices of films we watch is heavily influenced by men. The representation of women in film is also highly problematic, with a seemingly universal desire to appeal to white, heterosexual males, the sidelining of accurate images and voices of women is rife.
In this discussion group we will consider the issues surrounding this male dominance, and how it impacts our viewing of film. We will examine the sexism that runs through both the representation of, and the lack of women in roles throughout film, whilst also celebrating women who have had a positive influenceCafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
Screening of "All Our Lives (De Toda La Vida)" by Bristol Solidarity Federation
This 1986 documentary, directed by Lisa Berger and Carol Mazer, tells the story of Mujeres Libres, the first independent women’s organisation in Spain. All the women in the film were members of the CNT and actively participated in the social revolution during the Spanish civil war. Though as Suceso Portales puts it, they “weren't fighting a war in the ordinary sense of one power against another: we were fighting to create a more just and humane society.” Spanish women at this time found themselves bound by the “triple enslavement of women to ignorance, to capital and to men”. Women were effectively subordinated to men and this even extended to the revolutionary movement itself. The work of the Mujeres Libres was not to solely focus on empowering women to participate in the social struggle but to also be a constant challenge to the male dominance of the movement.
The documentary is 60 minutes long and will be followed by a discussion of the film and its relevance to the position of women in Britain today
Bristol YHA, 4 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA.
Tuesday 15th Januaury 2013
What the Frock! Fundraising Event Night
What The Frock! will be hosting a special fundraising quiz night to support the Women & Poverty event at Bristol City Council on International Women's Day 8th March 2013.
As with previous WTF! quizzes, there will be a maximum of four people per team (if you have more people, just make up more teams!) and it costs £3 per person to enter the quiz. There will be fabulous prizes for all of the winning quiz team, plus medals! To avoid disappointment, please register here for free.
There will also be a prize raffle - tickets will be 50p each, or a strip of five for £2. Prizes so far include signed Helen Dunmore books, a meal for two at The Square Club, What The Frock! tickets, Fawcett Society goodies, Alistair Sawday's travel books, and much more.
Every single penny raised from this event will go towards the costs of the Women & Poverty event. Any money leftover once conference costs are met, it will be donated to a relevant charity and no profits will be made from this event.
The Big Chill, 15 Small St, Bristol . Doors from 7.30pm. Quiz 8pm. CLose 10.30pm
Saturday 8th December, 2012
Action against cuts to VAWG services
All over the UK on 8th December, feminist and UK Uncut activists are taking to the street to protest the cuts to domestic abuse services, which have had 31% of their funding cut. According to the British Crime Survey, 1.2 million women report domestic abuse each year, around 80,000-100,000 women are raped and every day, 230 women are turned away from refuges that could save their lives, because there simply isn't enough room. This year, a woman has been murdered every 3.3 days as a result of domestic abuse. These cuts are killing women.
UK Uncut protesters will be occupying Starbucks, a notorious tax dodger. Whilst domestic abuse services are brutally cut, Starbucks can get away with not paying the taxes that would save these services (more info).
In solidarity with UK Uncut, Bristol Feminist Network will be flyering outside Starbucks in Broadmead with info about the cuts to services, and what they can do to tell the council we will not accept any cuts. Please join us and stand in solidarity with activists up and down the UK.
DOWNLOAD FLYER
Starbucks in Broadmead, Bristol , 12.00
Tuesday 4th December 2012
WomanKind Worldwide and global feminism
BFN are pleased to welcome a representative from WomanKind Worldwide to talk about the fantastic and inspiring activism of feminists across the world. We will be hearing about the work feminists are doing in peace activism, anti-poverty work and in the fight for gender equality. We'll be discussing how we can reach out across borders to stand in solidarity with our sisters all over the the globe.
Hydra Bookshop, Old Market St, Bristol. 18.30 - 20.30.
Sunday 18th November 2012
Pussy Riot fundraiser
Following the arrest and sentencing of members of Russian punk group, Pussy Riot, for the crime of "hooliganism driven by religious hatred", there have been outcries from many corners of the Western World, in particular from musicians & artists. In Bristol we will be showing our solidarity, raising funds and awareness with an evening of events instigated by outspoken supporter & friend of the women, Bristol MP Kerry McCarthy.
The focus of the event will be live music with three artists lined up to play including local favourites Empty Pools, She Makes War and Josie Ghost. Plus an exclusive screening of a short film about Pussy Riot, based on events in parliament & including clips of the women. There will also be stalls, DJs, discussion and the usual goodness of The Lanes - cocktails, large smoking area, bowling etc.
The Lanes, Nelson St, Bristol from 7pm. Entry £3
Saturday 17th November 2012
Violence Against Women and Girls,
Open Space event
BFN is dedicated to tackling and ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) in all forms, including rape, sexual assault, physical, emotional, financial abuse, FGM, forced marriage, harassment. We are also concerned with wider cultural violence, such as cultural femicide, that oppress women and silence our voices. For more details, please read and contribute to our Position Paper statement on VAWG.
The BFN VAWG Open Space event aims to bring together local and national activist groups to discuss and share plans for tackling VAWG. As cuts continue to decimate our support services, we're facing a crisis which is eroding hard won gains in the work to end VAWG.
An Open Space event involves bringing organisations and individuals together to talk and plan actions. If you would like your organisation to be represented at the event, and to talk about the issues you work on with other feminists, please email us.
Please note that in order to prioritise safe, accessible space for women and girls to discuss violence, this event is women only and open to all self identifying women.
Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, Bristol , 11.00
Wednesday 22nd August 2012
Kyriarchy and intersectional feminism
Feminism must concern the social experiences of all self-defining women, but has this always been the case? For a long time feminism has been seen as a movement led by and for white, middle-class, cis- gendered women, but feminism has always upheld important initiatives and influence generated by queer, women of colour, disabled and working women. The purpose of this workshop/discussion will be to show why an intersectional feminism that takes into account multiple oppressions such as racism, homophobia, disablism etc is fitting and beneficial for us all.
Malcolm X Centre, City Road, Bristol , 19.00
Wednesday 11th July 2012
Feminist Literature and Publishing
Oxfam Cotham Bookshop have invited BFN to run an evening as part of their literature festival. We'll be talking about the publishing of The Light Bulb Moment, complete with a reading, before having a wider discussion around feminist publishing and writing, and what's next for feminist books and the movement. It promises to be a really inspiring event and we're really thrilled that Oxfam want us to be part of their programme.
Oxfam Bookshop, Cotham Hill, Bristol. 19.30
Thursday 7th June 2012
Discussion on sexual harassment
Sexual harassment in the workplace hasn't gone away. Laws are in place, the Anita Hill trial happened, and still women experience it. From sexist jokes, inappropriate touching, displaying porn materials or general bullying - when women enter the workplace they should not have to put up with it. Many women end up having to leave their jobs, thanks to a culture of disbelief, male privilege and lack of legal support.
And it isn't just at work. Sexual harassment happens in schools, colleges and univiersities. And it happens when we walk down the street. But it isn't a fact of life, it isn't inevitable and we can fight it. This discussion group invites us to share our experiences of harassment in a safe and supportive space, whilst we also plan actions we can take to ensure that when it happens, the perperators are held responsible.
Cafe on the Square, Queen's Square, Bristol. 19.00 - 21.00
Monday 4th June 2012
Where are the women? They're at the Cube!
BFN invites you to an evening to celebrate the creative and activist achievements of Bristol's women. We'll be joined by Womankind and speakers Finn Mackay and Shabana Kausor, who will talk about their work in tackling violence against women and girls. We'll hear and see art and poetry created in survivors workshops organised by artist Jan Martin. And we'll be treated to performances and artist showreels by Shagufta Iqbal, Töve Andrews, Layne Arlina, Abigail Cooke, Natalia Komis, Katie Ness, Ria Parfitt and Clare Tigoglu and many more. We look forward to seeing you there. Artists booked and arranged by Bristol's Layne Arlina.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
19.30 - 21.30, Tuesday 15th May 2012
The Light Bulb Moment
Book launch and panel discussion on the future of feminism. The Light Bulb Moment is an anthology of stories from feminists across the UK, sharing the moment they realised they were feminists.
The second half of the evening will be a panel discussion on the Future of Feminism, including:
- Natasha Walter: Women for Refugee Women
- Anna Van Heeswijk: Object
- Chitra Nagajaran: Southall Black Sisters
- Zohra Moosa: Action Aid
- Mara Clarke: Abortion Support Network
Join us at this event as we reflect on feminism's past and celebrate and discuss the movement's future. In collaboration with the Festival of Ideas and the Watershed.
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL. Tickets can be bought through the Watershed.
The Watershed, Bristol.
Friday 27th April 2012
Feminist Friday - lad's mag action!
After discussions at our membership meeting, we decided to organise more direct actions and thought a good place to start would be Feminist Friday action against lads mags. To get involved please meet up by the Neptune fountain in the city centre at 5.30pm with paper bags at the ready to go into shops together and tackle misogyny together. (and how about a feminist social afterwards?). All you have to do is:
- Get a paper bag
- Write a feminist slogan on it
- On your way to work, on your lunch break, after work, go into shops that sell magazines and pop misogynistic mags into your handy bags and put them back on the shelf.
Bristol Vity Centre, from 17:30
Tuesday 17th April 2012
Women supporting refugee women
Last year the government rejected the EU directive that recognises that women may seek asylum on the grounds of gender based persecution, including rape, FGM, forced marriage, so-called honour based violence and other forms of gender based violence. Women seek asylum in the UK for all sorts of reasons and it's important to recognise gender based violence. On their arrival in the UK, women are not believed, they are left on the streets, they are left destitute, or they are put into detention in Yarls Wood.
This discussion group will explore the issues facing refugee women n the UK, and try and plan actions for what we can do to campaign on this issue.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
Thursday 29th March 2012
Workshop: Letter writing to our daughters This brand new project is a blog aimed at creating an online resource and community, and eventually forming the basis for a book. This workshop is an opportunity to write your own letter to your 'daughters'. Exploring themes that celebrate what it is to be female, it is a chance to share our wisdom, humour and guidance, and to express our wishes for our 'daughters' (defined as any girl child we choose to love unconditionally - which means, in this context, all of them).
Our 'daughters' are the next generation of women; if you could give the gift of an idea to them all, what would you say? What would you teach them? What would you wish for them? Expect laughter, honesty and a bit of soul-searching. Letters will only be used on the blog with your consent, and anonymous contributions are welcome. For further details: www.lettersforourdaughters.com
This event is for women only.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Thursday 22nd March 2012
Workshop and presentation on FGM Please join BFN and Hiba, who is part of a project co-organised by the Home Office, Daughters of Eve and various other organisations to empower young women around issues on FGM and violence against women and girls.
Please note this is a woman-only event and is open to all self identifying women. This is to ensure it is a safe and accessible space. However we hope to run more events on FGM that will be mixed, and all of our previous events on FGM have been mixed.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
Tuesday 21st February 2012
Film and Feminism
Despite 51% of cinema goers in the UK being women, the industry, both UK and worldwide, is heavily dominated by men. From the people who make them, to those who review and choose to distribute them, our choices of films we watch is heavily influenced by men. The representation of women in film is also highly problematic, with a seemingly universal desire to appeal to white, heterosexual males, the sidelining of accurate images and voices of women is rife.
In this discussion group we will consider the issues surrounding this male dominance, and how it impacts our viewing of film. We will examine the sexism that runs through both the representation of, and the lack of women in roles throughout film, whilst also celebrating women who have had a positive influenceCafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00 - 21.00.
15th February 2012
Bristol Uni FemSoc Film Night:
Miss Representation
Bristol University Feminist Society are holding a film night! Our next event will be showing an American documentary called Miss Representation, an amazing film. Just to add a bit more incentive there will be free popcorn on offer!!
The film nights are going to be really relaxed and casual, so come along to watch the film and chat, and bring friends to spread the feminist love! Meet outside Hawthorns at 7.00pm so we can walk to the house (which is on Woodland Road) to watch the film.
Woodland Road, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
19th January 2012
Sex Education Discussion Group
One of our aims of Reclaim the Night was to encourage education around consent and respect. Sex education is still a thorny issue. Some schools are still exempted from teaching it at all. Others stick to the biology, without looking at relationships, consent and respect. Now Gove has said that a funding condition for free schools and academies require them to teach the benefit of marriage over other relationships.
Lizzie and Jess work for NHS 4YP, an organisation dedicated to encouraging full sex and relationship education to young people. They'll be talking about their work and inviting dicussion about issues around sex education.
Cafe on the Square, Queen's Square, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
18th January 2012
A Year in the Life of BFN
Newly opened radical bookshop Hydra have invited Sian and Anna from BFN to talk about feminism in 2011. We'll be reviewing BFN's many activities and the big feminist issues of the year.
Hydra Bookshop, Old Market, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
Bristol Uni FemSoc Film Night:
Miss Representation
Bristol University Feminist Society are holding a film night! Our next event will be showing an American documentary called Miss Representation, an amazing film. Just to add a bit more incentive there will be free popcorn on offer!!
The film nights are going to be really relaxed and casual, so come along to watch the film and chat, and bring friends to spread the feminist love! Meet outside Hawthorns at 7.00pm so we can walk to the house (which is on Woodland Road) to watch the film.
Woodland Road, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
19th January 2012
Sex Education Discussion Group
One of our aims of Reclaim the Night was to encourage education around consent and respect. Sex education is still a thorny issue. Some schools are still exempted from teaching it at all. Others stick to the biology, without looking at relationships, consent and respect. Now Gove has said that a funding condition for free schools and academies require them to teach the benefit of marriage over other relationships.
Lizzie and Jess work for NHS 4YP, an organisation dedicated to encouraging full sex and relationship education to young people. They'll be talking about their work and inviting dicussion about issues around sex education.
Cafe on the Square, Queen's Square, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
18th January 2012
A Year in the Life of BFN
Newly opened radical bookshop Hydra have invited Sian and Anna from BFN to talk about feminism in 2011. We'll be reviewing BFN's many activities and the big feminist issues of the year.
Hydra Bookshop, Old Market, Bristol. 19.00 - 22.00
16th December, 2011
BFN's Christmas Party!
This has probably been our busiest year yet and what a year it has been! Here are just some of the things we've done:
* Where are the Women cabaret event at the Cube
*Where are the Women panel discussion at the Watershed
* Many, many discussion groups
* Two FGM awareness raising events
* Violence against women in the DRC event
* Reclaim the Night
* No Women No Peace workshop and demo
* Petitions
* Letter writing
* Three conferences
* NUS Sister Activist
And a host of networking, meetings, book groups, planning, feministing and activisting.
So lets celebrate a fantastic year for BFN and a very merry Christmas with pizza and beverages and social times. We look forward to raising a Merry Christmas glass with you.
Renato's, King Street, Bristol. 19:00 - 22:00
13th December 2011
RTN: Speak Out! Post event discussion
Please join us after Reclaim the Night for a safe and supportive 'speak out' about violence against women and girls. This will be a safe space for women to share if they want to, to listen to one another and support one another. We will be joined by counsellors and staff from Bristol Rape Crisis who will be on hand to facilitate and offer support.
Please note: This is a woman only event. If men would like to set up their own discussion group to talk about intimate partner violence then let the network know and we will help publicise your event.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.30 - 22.30.
Saturday 19th November
One25 Auction Extravaganza
Launch into this year's winter party season at the One25 Auction Extravaganza. This memorable night will include a sparkling wine reception, a sumptuous two course dinner, live music, a special guest speaker and of course... a grand auction. This is an opportunity to support a truly inspiring charity in a creative and exciting way, so make sure you don't miss out.
BUY TICKETS ONLINE HERE
Woodlands Centre, Bristol. 18.30
Friday 18th November
Bristol Reclaim the Night
Hundreds will take to the streets of Bristol to demonstrate the right to walk through the city, free from the fear of sexual harassment, abuse and violence. Their march demands an end to all sexual violence, on the street, in the workplace, in schools and in the home. We will also be hosting an after party to celebrate the achievements of service providers and campaigners who work so hard to support those affected by sexual violence. For full event details, please visit our main Reclaim the Night pages.
Events throughout the night 18.00-21.00
March begins at College Green, Bristol at 18.00
After party at the Stag and Hounds, Bristol from 20.00
Sunday 13th November
The Reclaim the Night Pub Quiz
Get your feminist thinking caps on and compete for fab prizes in the Reclaim the Night fundraising quiz!
Pop culture, feminist music, feminist films, feminist history and lots of fun and quick fire rounds - this quiz has it all. All proceeds going to Bristol Rape Crisis, one of the main charities behind the campaign. Expect an evening of fierce competition in the lovely setting of The Square Cocktail Bar. So, organise your winning team and we will see you there!
More details.
The Square Bar, 15 Berkeley Square, Bristol. 19.30-22.30
Monday 31st October
Meet me on the Bridge
No Women, No Peace event. Join us on Perry's Bridge, wearing green scarves to join a ntional movement to show solidarity with the women of Afghanistan, who are campaigning to have a voice in the peace negotiations. On 31st October, women and men up and down the country will be standing in solidarity with women's rights activists in the country, with candlelit vigils and bridge events. Join us at Perry's bridge at 5.30pm, where we will be wearing green - the colour of women's rights activism in the country - and demanding that William Hague recognises that the women of Afghanistan need to be heard and listened to and represented at the peace negotiation table.
Pero's Bridge, Waterfront, Bristol, from 17.30
Tuesday 25th October
Reclaim the Night planning meeting
Planning meeting for volunteers, supporters any anyone interested in participating in Bristol Reclaim the Night later this year.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00.
Tuesday 18th October
Feminism and the Music Industry
Take a look at how many female musicians you have in your music collection. Ask yourself how many are truly independent of men – and how many male musicians have recorded independent of women. Who’s produced the record? Is the front cover marketed towards a male audience? Is it particularly feminine, while male musicians are represented on neutral ground?
In this discussion group we won’t just question whether Beyoncé really is a feminist, and if original female artists can overcome the “girl with a guitar” tag. We’ll take a look at male dominance and ask if feminism has had a big enough impact on the music industry for it to be considered devoid of sexism.
This group will be facilitated by Vicky Houston and Tiffany Daniels, who edits DrunkenWerewolf, contributes to The Line of Best Fit, Venue Magazine and Risk & Consequence, and is Sub Editor of New Music on God Is in the TV. Somehow she still finds time to sleep, drink and watch The X Factor. She has a BA (Hons) in English Literature and Archaeology from the University of Liverpool, but doesn’t find it very helpful.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.30 - 22.30.
Monday 5th September 2011
Africa Rising - film and panel discussion on FGM
This collaboration between BFN and Bristol Indymedia film presents the powerful documentary Africa Rising.
From the Horn of Africa to the Western shores of the sub-Saharan nations, everyday 6,000 girls are subjected to a practice called female genital mutilation (FGM). And everyday with little more than fierce determination and deep love for their communities, brave activists are leading the path against all odds to break the silence about this centuries-old tradition. Together, these women and men have created a formidable grassroots movement to end FGM. Africa Rising is an extraordinary film presenting an insightful look at the frontlines of a quiet revolution taking the African continent by storm. Covering rural stories from accross the continent, Africa Rising will leave the viewer cheering for those unlikely heroes who share their conviction that ending female genital mutilation is within our reach and visible on the horizon.
Naana Otoo-Oyortey MBE, Director of Forward and Efua Dorkenoo from Equality Now who helped to make the film will also be speaking. Efua will give an introduction into the film and will also be able to answer questions about the current situation.
£3/£4 but nobody refused for lack of funds.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
Sunday 4th September 2011
No Women No Peace workshop. Women of Afghanistan
No Women, No Peace is a campaign to promote women’s rights in conflict and participation in peace processes. We’re going to be focusing on Afghanistan with concerns that women’s rights are being marginalised for ‘peace’ and that women won’t be present to talk about their future and that of their country or negotiate with the Taliban.
This workshop is to plan a day of action on 7th October. We want to work with feminist activists all over the country on the issue in solidarity with the women of Afghanistan. We aim to mobilise people around the country to petition, write to their MPs, get coverage in the local press, hold events and have demonstrations on 7th October all over the UK. We want the UK to use diplomatic pressure, fund Afghan women’s organisations to attend the transition talks and build women’s rights into the transition plan. We need to show the UK government that people in the UK are holding them to the promises they made to Afghan women ten years ago. Please join us!
Cafe on the Square, Bristol. 14:00 - 17:00
Monday 11th July 2011
Feminism in Action. A One Day Seminar
Hosted by the University of the West of England Gender Studies Research Group and the Psychology of Women Section. Programme to cover sessions entitled: Kabul-Reykjavík-Gaza: Feminist transnational dialogue in action, Feminist adventures beyond the ivory tower: The New View Campaign, Feminism in action in Bristol, Feminist activism today and its future, Sexual violence prevention and the problem of pornography.
Full details here.
Frenchay Campus, UWE. 10am-5pmSaturday 9th July 2011
The Cutting Tradition, Film and discussion
The Cutting Tradition is a film that explores the issues surrounding female genital mutilation. Across the world, FGM affects millions of women from a wide range of communities. As feminists, we need to be dedicated to fighting violence against women and girls in all its forms. We need to stand with our sisters across the world and across communities to say no to FGM and to say no to oppression and to say no to violence.
Please join Nimko Ali from Daughters of Eve, Ruthie Taylor: Orchid Project, Jackie Mathers:Bristol PCT and Sian Norris BFN who will be talking about FGM after the film and taking your questions. Anna Brown will be chairing.
Please be warned that this film contains footage which some viewers may find distressing.
This event is FREE
The Watershed, Bristol. 13.00-16.00
Tuesday 28th June
Feminism and Abortion
Where do we as feminists stand today on this once-pivotal issue? Is abortion still as much a core feminist cause to us as it once was? Do we need to reawaken a sense of urgency with regard to reproductive freedom in the UK, or do we trust in the status quo? Should a concerted feminist campaign be mounted to combat the claims and proposals of Dorries, Fields and those who support them? Join us to talk about these and other choice-related issues.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Monday 20th June
Book Group: Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein
Part coming-of-age story, part mind-altering manifesto on gender and sexuality, coming directly to you from the life experiences of a transsexual woman, Gender Outlaw breaks all the rules and leaves the reader forever changed. - NB may be difficult to get hold of
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Thursday 16th June
Feminism 101
An introduction to feminism. An opportunity for people who are new to feminism to learn more about it and for longer-term members to share their experiences.
Please bring your questions - nothing is too large, too small and there are no stupid questions. With a panel including bloggers from the feminist blogosphere, activists on a range of issues and a cross-generational viewpoint, come along and really get to grips with feminism today.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7.30-9.30pm
Monday 13th June 2011
Representation of Women in the Media
‘Reps’ is an activist project to raise awareness, provoke debate and inform feminist arguments and actions. The last wave of feminism may have receded, but at a SELL OUT panel discussion in March Where are the Women? we felt the tide rising and the next wave will carry us high up the beach. Be part of that wave - help take the ‘Reps’ project forward. We could :
make better use of the web site,
organize actions,
disseminate ideas and info
plan a women’s literary festival.
Talk over ideas (bring more), take on a specific task or get involved in overall organization.
Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, Bristol Monday 13th June 2011, 7.30pm
7-26th May
Sistershow Revisited. Feminism Bristol 1973-5
By 1973 the Women’s Liberation Movement (WLM) in Britain had mobilised thousands of women to challenge sexism in their everyday lives. Many local groups emerged to support an ever-growing social movement. In Bristol women set up women’s centres, published their own media including the Bristol WLM journal, ‘Enough,’ to spread the message. Sistershow was part of this, an amateur feminist theatre which used humour, dramatics and art to explore feminist issues, challenge stereotypes about the humour-less feminist whilst exploring new forms of gender and sexual identities.
In May 2011 an exhibition about Sistershow and the history of the Bristol WLM aims to invoke the spirit of Sistershow for contemporary audiences. It will include participatory educational activities that will enable visitors to reflect upon the gender and sexual politics of the 1970s, as well as our own era. To accompany the exhibition there will be also be a catalogue and a blog to contain treasures we have gathered from our trips to archives, excerpts of oral interviews, photographs, practical information about meetings and community history resources.
More details and the full schedule.
Centrespace Gallery and events and venues throughout Bristol
Thursday 12th May 2011
Polyamory and Feminism
Polyamory (or ethical non-monogamy) is the practice, desire, or acceptance of having more than one intimate relationship at a time with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Poly is gradually becoming more popular as an idea for alternative relationship styles. The practice of polyamory involves many areas of intersection with feminism including: gender & gender roles, sexuality, equalities legislation, parenting and sex education. In the discussion we will talk about what polyamory is and its lived practice before going on to discuss the possibilities and implications of feminism and polyamory. It will also be an opportunity to hear the main points/outcomes from this workshop when it was held at a polyamory event in Bristol in November.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7.30-9.30pm
Thursday 19th May 2011
Feminism, Social Work and the Cuts
An evening of discussion on Feminism, Social Work and the Cuts organised by the Bristol Uni Social Work Action Network group. Speakers include Pamela Trevithick andLaura Penketh. This event is open to all, so feel free to pass this on. For more info please contact Kate kg0481@bristol.ac.uk
Bristol University, Room 7G1 7, Priory Rd Clifton, Bristol. 4.30-6.30pm
Thursday 19th May 2011
Sistershow Revisited
What was it like to be a feminist in seventies Bristol and what is it like now? Bringing together Bristol feminists from the 1970s and today, and coinciding with the exhibition Sistershow Revisited (Centrespace Gallery 7-26 May), this is a unique opportunity to hear the stories of grassroots activists who have worked, and continue to work, to improve the quality of women's lives in Bristol. What kind of issues did women raise in the 1970s? How different was it to today's feminist agenda? How do today's feminists ensure that vital services created by seventies feminists, such as Women's Aid, are protected?
Fee: £7.00 full / £5.00 conc. Quote "Fawcett" for discount £4 tickets!
The Watershed, Bristol. 7.30pm
Wednesday 1st June 2011
BFN Social!
Come along to our spring/summer social! BFN socials are a great way to meet like-minded people, make new friends and get to know the coordinators. If you have not yet come to one of our events or activities this would be a great chance to drop in and say hi. We hope you can make it!
The Social Bar, 130 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol. 7.30 - 11pm
Monday 6th June
VAWG in the Congo
BFN and Bristol Indymedia present and evening about violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the Congo. The civil war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been the bloodiest since the Second World War. Millions have died and mass rape has been used across the country as a weapon of war, But beyond the odd Special Report or Unreported World, we rarely hear about it in the western media.
There will be a screening of the film created by V Day who have worked with the women of the Congo to build the City of Joy, a safe space for the survivors of rape. The film features the women of the Congo telling their stories of violence, and the hope they have for a better future.
We will also be joined by a range of speakers, actors including Katharine Viner, deputy editor of the Guardian, and we will have a discussion at the end. We will learn how we are all connected to the Congo. We will refuse to accept silence on this issue.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
Monday 9th May 2011
Book Group:
Delusions of Gender by Cordelia Fine
A vehement attack on the latest pseudo-scientific claims about the differences between the sexes. Sex discrimination is supposedly a distant memory. Yet popular books, magazines and even scientific articles increasingly defend inequalities by citing immutable biological differences between the male and female brain. That's the reason, we're told, that there are so few women in science and engineering, so few men in the laundry room - different brains are just better suited to different things. Drawing on the latest research in developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social psychology, Delusions of Gender powerfully rebuts these claims, showing how old myths, dressed up in new scientific finery, are helping perpetuate the sexist status quo.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.30pm
Thursday 7th April 2011
Feminism and Relationships
Discussion into how being feminists affects our relationships with those around us. We'll be looking at a diverse range of questions, including: How do you manage relationships with family, friends and colleagues who don't share your views? How do you ensure that a romantic/sexual relationship is equal? Do the same inequalities exist in same-sex relationships as in heterosexual relationships? Can marriage ever be an equal institution? Are civil partnership laws and movements like the Equal Love Campaign making positive changes for women's equality? Come and join us to look at all these issues in a supportive space where we can share opinions, experiences and advice.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.30pm
Wednesday 16th March 2011
Gender Norms and Capitalism
Are gender norms and capitalism linked somehow? BFN discussion group on whether the ideas behind capitalism (such as free market competition) have formed in the light of our society’s gender stereotypes (such as ‘men should be strong’, ‘women should be caring’). Come along and discuss these questions at cafe Kino with BFN. Sofia Gradin (academic and queer activist who's curious about them) starts off with a short talk to introduce the topic. Then we'll have an open discussion where we explore different ideas and start to figure out whether the ideas behind these two power structures are somehow linked.
Cafe Kino, 7.30pm
Monday 7th March 2011
Book Group:
Close Range. Wyoming Stories by Annie Proulx.
From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of 'The Shipping News' comes a collection of short stories inspired by the harsh and unforgiving landscape of Wyoming. Throughout the collection, Annie Proulx invests these stories with an intelligence and black humour that transforms them into something new and surprising.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.20pm
Sunday 6th March 2011
Where are the Women welcomes Bidisha
Over the past four years, the Bristol Fawcett Society and the Bristol Feminist Network have researched the representation of women in the media. One of our most startling findings has been the absence of women in our culture and media. From the majority of films being directed by men, to a lack of women's voices on children's TV, and no women appearing on the Bristol comedy circuit, we have always returned to the question - 'Where are the women?' More details.We are delighted to invite writer, critic, commentator and journalist Bidisha to discuss the absence of women in popular culture, and to ask the question - what can we do to change this. The talk will be followed by a Q&A session with the audience.
2pm - 4pm. Watershed room 3. Bookings via Watershed
Thursday 3rd March 2011
Women Who Make a Difference Award 2011
Women Who Make a Difference Award is in recognition of the invaluable contributions women are making to improving and sustaining Bristol's community. If there is a women in your community, your partner, mother, sister, daughter, friend, neighbour, colleague who has inspired you or been a role model, who has made a difference in your life, please put her forward. The awards ceremony will be part of the International Women's Day Celebrations at the Council House. For further details, or to nominate a woman, please contact shagufta.kasour@bristol.gov.uk or download this form.
Council House, 2pm - 4pm
Sunday 27th February 2011
Pub Quiz!
We need to raise some cash to help cover the costs of the Watershed event. What better way than a battle of the wits to test our feminist knowledge? Come along, form a team, answer some questions, buy some raffle tickets and even win a prize! We look forward to seeing you there. Venue info.
Under the Stars Cafe, Harbourside, Bristol. 8-11pm
Thursday 17th February 2011
Sisterhood
Sisterhood was one of the tenets of the feminist movement. But as feminists do we always behave in a sisterly manner? Sisterhood isn't about liking every woman you meet. But there is something to be said for behaving in a sisterly way. Supporting one another. Not joining in the media bullying of women. Thinking about how our actions impact on other women. Do feminists always treat women in a sisterly manner, or with respect? Lets talk about it!
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7-9pm
February 2011
LGBT History Month
February 2011 is Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans History Month, and Bristol plays host to a huge range of events to celebrate. Bristol Central Library have agreed to offer space for an exhibition of LGBT women's history, and all we need is material to display. Were you around in the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s (don't worry, you don't have to remember it!) Or even the 90s? Do you have photos, posters, flyers, mementos, letters etc that you'd be willing to loan for display in the library during February 2011? Or even your own memories that you'd be willing to write up for us to display? Please contact Emily on lgbtwomenwriting@gmail.com
Alongside this, a creative writing workshop for LGBT women is also being held on Thursday 17th of February. Places are limited, and must be booked in advance on the address above.
Paper Village, Southville. £3 on the door
BFN's Christmas Party!
This has probably been our busiest year yet and what a year it has been! Here are just some of the things we've done:
* Where are the Women cabaret event at the Cube
*Where are the Women panel discussion at the Watershed
* Many, many discussion groups
* Two FGM awareness raising events
* Violence against women in the DRC event
* Reclaim the Night
* No Women No Peace workshop and demo
* Petitions
* Letter writing
* Three conferences
* NUS Sister Activist
And a host of networking, meetings, book groups, planning, feministing and activisting.
So lets celebrate a fantastic year for BFN and a very merry Christmas with pizza and beverages and social times. We look forward to raising a Merry Christmas glass with you.
Renato's, King Street, Bristol. 19:00 - 22:00
13th December 2011
RTN: Speak Out! Post event discussion
Please join us after Reclaim the Night for a safe and supportive 'speak out' about violence against women and girls. This will be a safe space for women to share if they want to, to listen to one another and support one another. We will be joined by counsellors and staff from Bristol Rape Crisis who will be on hand to facilitate and offer support.
Please note: This is a woman only event. If men would like to set up their own discussion group to talk about intimate partner violence then let the network know and we will help publicise your event.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.30 - 22.30.
Saturday 19th November
One25 Auction Extravaganza
Launch into this year's winter party season at the One25 Auction Extravaganza. This memorable night will include a sparkling wine reception, a sumptuous two course dinner, live music, a special guest speaker and of course... a grand auction. This is an opportunity to support a truly inspiring charity in a creative and exciting way, so make sure you don't miss out.
BUY TICKETS ONLINE HERE
Woodlands Centre, Bristol. 18.30
Friday 18th November
Bristol Reclaim the Night
Hundreds will take to the streets of Bristol to demonstrate the right to walk through the city, free from the fear of sexual harassment, abuse and violence. Their march demands an end to all sexual violence, on the street, in the workplace, in schools and in the home. We will also be hosting an after party to celebrate the achievements of service providers and campaigners who work so hard to support those affected by sexual violence. For full event details, please visit our main Reclaim the Night pages.
Events throughout the night 18.00-21.00
March begins at College Green, Bristol at 18.00
After party at the Stag and Hounds, Bristol from 20.00
Sunday 13th November
The Reclaim the Night Pub Quiz
Get your feminist thinking caps on and compete for fab prizes in the Reclaim the Night fundraising quiz!
Pop culture, feminist music, feminist films, feminist history and lots of fun and quick fire rounds - this quiz has it all. All proceeds going to Bristol Rape Crisis, one of the main charities behind the campaign. Expect an evening of fierce competition in the lovely setting of The Square Cocktail Bar. So, organise your winning team and we will see you there!
More details.
The Square Bar, 15 Berkeley Square, Bristol. 19.30-22.30
Monday 31st October
Meet me on the Bridge
No Women, No Peace event. Join us on Perry's Bridge, wearing green scarves to join a ntional movement to show solidarity with the women of Afghanistan, who are campaigning to have a voice in the peace negotiations. On 31st October, women and men up and down the country will be standing in solidarity with women's rights activists in the country, with candlelit vigils and bridge events. Join us at Perry's bridge at 5.30pm, where we will be wearing green - the colour of women's rights activism in the country - and demanding that William Hague recognises that the women of Afghanistan need to be heard and listened to and represented at the peace negotiation table.
Pero's Bridge, Waterfront, Bristol, from 17.30
Tuesday 25th October
Reclaim the Night planning meeting
Planning meeting for volunteers, supporters any anyone interested in participating in Bristol Reclaim the Night later this year.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.00.
Tuesday 18th October
Feminism and the Music Industry
Take a look at how many female musicians you have in your music collection. Ask yourself how many are truly independent of men – and how many male musicians have recorded independent of women. Who’s produced the record? Is the front cover marketed towards a male audience? Is it particularly feminine, while male musicians are represented on neutral ground?
In this discussion group we won’t just question whether Beyoncé really is a feminist, and if original female artists can overcome the “girl with a guitar” tag. We’ll take a look at male dominance and ask if feminism has had a big enough impact on the music industry for it to be considered devoid of sexism.
This group will be facilitated by Vicky Houston and Tiffany Daniels, who edits DrunkenWerewolf, contributes to The Line of Best Fit, Venue Magazine and Risk & Consequence, and is Sub Editor of New Music on God Is in the TV. Somehow she still finds time to sleep, drink and watch The X Factor. She has a BA (Hons) in English Literature and Archaeology from the University of Liverpool, but doesn’t find it very helpful.
Cafe on the Square, Bristol, 19.30 - 22.30.
Monday 5th September 2011
Africa Rising - film and panel discussion on FGM
This collaboration between BFN and Bristol Indymedia film presents the powerful documentary Africa Rising.
From the Horn of Africa to the Western shores of the sub-Saharan nations, everyday 6,000 girls are subjected to a practice called female genital mutilation (FGM). And everyday with little more than fierce determination and deep love for their communities, brave activists are leading the path against all odds to break the silence about this centuries-old tradition. Together, these women and men have created a formidable grassroots movement to end FGM. Africa Rising is an extraordinary film presenting an insightful look at the frontlines of a quiet revolution taking the African continent by storm. Covering rural stories from accross the continent, Africa Rising will leave the viewer cheering for those unlikely heroes who share their conviction that ending female genital mutilation is within our reach and visible on the horizon.
Naana Otoo-Oyortey MBE, Director of Forward and Efua Dorkenoo from Equality Now who helped to make the film will also be speaking. Efua will give an introduction into the film and will also be able to answer questions about the current situation.
£3/£4 but nobody refused for lack of funds.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
Sunday 4th September 2011
No Women No Peace workshop. Women of Afghanistan
No Women, No Peace is a campaign to promote women’s rights in conflict and participation in peace processes. We’re going to be focusing on Afghanistan with concerns that women’s rights are being marginalised for ‘peace’ and that women won’t be present to talk about their future and that of their country or negotiate with the Taliban.
This workshop is to plan a day of action on 7th October. We want to work with feminist activists all over the country on the issue in solidarity with the women of Afghanistan. We aim to mobilise people around the country to petition, write to their MPs, get coverage in the local press, hold events and have demonstrations on 7th October all over the UK. We want the UK to use diplomatic pressure, fund Afghan women’s organisations to attend the transition talks and build women’s rights into the transition plan. We need to show the UK government that people in the UK are holding them to the promises they made to Afghan women ten years ago. Please join us!
Cafe on the Square, Bristol. 14:00 - 17:00
Monday 11th July 2011
Feminism in Action. A One Day Seminar
Hosted by the University of the West of England Gender Studies Research Group and the Psychology of Women Section. Programme to cover sessions entitled: Kabul-Reykjavík-Gaza: Feminist transnational dialogue in action, Feminist adventures beyond the ivory tower: The New View Campaign, Feminism in action in Bristol, Feminist activism today and its future, Sexual violence prevention and the problem of pornography.
Full details here.
Frenchay Campus, UWE. 10am-5pmSaturday 9th July 2011
The Cutting Tradition, Film and discussion
The Cutting Tradition is a film that explores the issues surrounding female genital mutilation. Across the world, FGM affects millions of women from a wide range of communities. As feminists, we need to be dedicated to fighting violence against women and girls in all its forms. We need to stand with our sisters across the world and across communities to say no to FGM and to say no to oppression and to say no to violence.
Please join Nimko Ali from Daughters of Eve, Ruthie Taylor: Orchid Project, Jackie Mathers:Bristol PCT and Sian Norris BFN who will be talking about FGM after the film and taking your questions. Anna Brown will be chairing.
Please be warned that this film contains footage which some viewers may find distressing.
This event is FREE
The Watershed, Bristol. 13.00-16.00
Tuesday 28th June
Feminism and Abortion
Where do we as feminists stand today on this once-pivotal issue? Is abortion still as much a core feminist cause to us as it once was? Do we need to reawaken a sense of urgency with regard to reproductive freedom in the UK, or do we trust in the status quo? Should a concerted feminist campaign be mounted to combat the claims and proposals of Dorries, Fields and those who support them? Join us to talk about these and other choice-related issues.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Monday 20th June
Book Group: Gender Outlaw by Kate Bornstein
Part coming-of-age story, part mind-altering manifesto on gender and sexuality, coming directly to you from the life experiences of a transsexual woman, Gender Outlaw breaks all the rules and leaves the reader forever changed. - NB may be difficult to get hold of
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7-9pm
Thursday 16th June
Feminism 101
An introduction to feminism. An opportunity for people who are new to feminism to learn more about it and for longer-term members to share their experiences.
Please bring your questions - nothing is too large, too small and there are no stupid questions. With a panel including bloggers from the feminist blogosphere, activists on a range of issues and a cross-generational viewpoint, come along and really get to grips with feminism today.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7.30-9.30pm
Monday 13th June 2011
Representation of Women in the Media
‘Reps’ is an activist project to raise awareness, provoke debate and inform feminist arguments and actions. The last wave of feminism may have receded, but at a SELL OUT panel discussion in March Where are the Women? we felt the tide rising and the next wave will carry us high up the beach. Be part of that wave - help take the ‘Reps’ project forward. We could :
make better use of the web site,
organize actions,
disseminate ideas and info
plan a women’s literary festival.
Talk over ideas (bring more), take on a specific task or get involved in overall organization.
Hamilton House, Stokes Croft, Bristol Monday 13th June 2011, 7.30pm
7-26th May
Sistershow Revisited. Feminism Bristol 1973-5
By 1973 the Women’s Liberation Movement (WLM) in Britain had mobilised thousands of women to challenge sexism in their everyday lives. Many local groups emerged to support an ever-growing social movement. In Bristol women set up women’s centres, published their own media including the Bristol WLM journal, ‘Enough,’ to spread the message. Sistershow was part of this, an amateur feminist theatre which used humour, dramatics and art to explore feminist issues, challenge stereotypes about the humour-less feminist whilst exploring new forms of gender and sexual identities.
In May 2011 an exhibition about Sistershow and the history of the Bristol WLM aims to invoke the spirit of Sistershow for contemporary audiences. It will include participatory educational activities that will enable visitors to reflect upon the gender and sexual politics of the 1970s, as well as our own era. To accompany the exhibition there will be also be a catalogue and a blog to contain treasures we have gathered from our trips to archives, excerpts of oral interviews, photographs, practical information about meetings and community history resources.
More details and the full schedule.
Centrespace Gallery and events and venues throughout Bristol
Thursday 12th May 2011
Polyamory and Feminism
Polyamory (or ethical non-monogamy) is the practice, desire, or acceptance of having more than one intimate relationship at a time with the knowledge and consent of everyone involved. Poly is gradually becoming more popular as an idea for alternative relationship styles. The practice of polyamory involves many areas of intersection with feminism including: gender & gender roles, sexuality, equalities legislation, parenting and sex education. In the discussion we will talk about what polyamory is and its lived practice before going on to discuss the possibilities and implications of feminism and polyamory. It will also be an opportunity to hear the main points/outcomes from this workshop when it was held at a polyamory event in Bristol in November.
Cafe Kino, Stokes Croft, Bristol. 7.30-9.30pm
Thursday 19th May 2011
Feminism, Social Work and the Cuts
An evening of discussion on Feminism, Social Work and the Cuts organised by the Bristol Uni Social Work Action Network group. Speakers include Pamela Trevithick andLaura Penketh. This event is open to all, so feel free to pass this on. For more info please contact Kate kg0481@bristol.ac.uk
Bristol University, Room 7G1 7, Priory Rd Clifton, Bristol. 4.30-6.30pm
Thursday 19th May 2011
Sistershow Revisited
What was it like to be a feminist in seventies Bristol and what is it like now? Bringing together Bristol feminists from the 1970s and today, and coinciding with the exhibition Sistershow Revisited (Centrespace Gallery 7-26 May), this is a unique opportunity to hear the stories of grassroots activists who have worked, and continue to work, to improve the quality of women's lives in Bristol. What kind of issues did women raise in the 1970s? How different was it to today's feminist agenda? How do today's feminists ensure that vital services created by seventies feminists, such as Women's Aid, are protected?
Fee: £7.00 full / £5.00 conc. Quote "Fawcett" for discount £4 tickets!
The Watershed, Bristol. 7.30pm
Wednesday 1st June 2011
BFN Social!
Come along to our spring/summer social! BFN socials are a great way to meet like-minded people, make new friends and get to know the coordinators. If you have not yet come to one of our events or activities this would be a great chance to drop in and say hi. We hope you can make it!
The Social Bar, 130 Cheltenham Rd, Bristol. 7.30 - 11pm
Monday 6th June
VAWG in the Congo
BFN and Bristol Indymedia present and evening about violence against women and girls (VAWG) in the Congo. The civil war in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has been the bloodiest since the Second World War. Millions have died and mass rape has been used across the country as a weapon of war, But beyond the odd Special Report or Unreported World, we rarely hear about it in the western media.
There will be a screening of the film created by V Day who have worked with the women of the Congo to build the City of Joy, a safe space for the survivors of rape. The film features the women of the Congo telling their stories of violence, and the hope they have for a better future.
We will also be joined by a range of speakers, actors including Katharine Viner, deputy editor of the Guardian, and we will have a discussion at the end. We will learn how we are all connected to the Congo. We will refuse to accept silence on this issue.
The Cube Cinema, Bristol, 8pm.
Monday 9th May 2011
Book Group:
Delusions of Gender by Cordelia Fine
A vehement attack on the latest pseudo-scientific claims about the differences between the sexes. Sex discrimination is supposedly a distant memory. Yet popular books, magazines and even scientific articles increasingly defend inequalities by citing immutable biological differences between the male and female brain. That's the reason, we're told, that there are so few women in science and engineering, so few men in the laundry room - different brains are just better suited to different things. Drawing on the latest research in developmental psychology, neuroscience, and social psychology, Delusions of Gender powerfully rebuts these claims, showing how old myths, dressed up in new scientific finery, are helping perpetuate the sexist status quo.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.30pm
Thursday 7th April 2011
Feminism and Relationships
Discussion into how being feminists affects our relationships with those around us. We'll be looking at a diverse range of questions, including: How do you manage relationships with family, friends and colleagues who don't share your views? How do you ensure that a romantic/sexual relationship is equal? Do the same inequalities exist in same-sex relationships as in heterosexual relationships? Can marriage ever be an equal institution? Are civil partnership laws and movements like the Equal Love Campaign making positive changes for women's equality? Come and join us to look at all these issues in a supportive space where we can share opinions, experiences and advice.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.30pm
Wednesday 16th March 2011
Gender Norms and Capitalism
Are gender norms and capitalism linked somehow? BFN discussion group on whether the ideas behind capitalism (such as free market competition) have formed in the light of our society’s gender stereotypes (such as ‘men should be strong’, ‘women should be caring’). Come along and discuss these questions at cafe Kino with BFN. Sofia Gradin (academic and queer activist who's curious about them) starts off with a short talk to introduce the topic. Then we'll have an open discussion where we explore different ideas and start to figure out whether the ideas behind these two power structures are somehow linked.
Cafe Kino, 7.30pm
Monday 7th March 2011
Book Group:
Close Range. Wyoming Stories by Annie Proulx.
From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of 'The Shipping News' comes a collection of short stories inspired by the harsh and unforgiving landscape of Wyoming. Throughout the collection, Annie Proulx invests these stories with an intelligence and black humour that transforms them into something new and surprising.
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7.20pm
Sunday 6th March 2011
Where are the Women welcomes Bidisha
Over the past four years, the Bristol Fawcett Society and the Bristol Feminist Network have researched the representation of women in the media. One of our most startling findings has been the absence of women in our culture and media. From the majority of films being directed by men, to a lack of women's voices on children's TV, and no women appearing on the Bristol comedy circuit, we have always returned to the question - 'Where are the women?' More details.We are delighted to invite writer, critic, commentator and journalist Bidisha to discuss the absence of women in popular culture, and to ask the question - what can we do to change this. The talk will be followed by a Q&A session with the audience.
2pm - 4pm. Watershed room 3. Bookings via Watershed
Thursday 3rd March 2011
Women Who Make a Difference Award 2011
Women Who Make a Difference Award is in recognition of the invaluable contributions women are making to improving and sustaining Bristol's community. If there is a women in your community, your partner, mother, sister, daughter, friend, neighbour, colleague who has inspired you or been a role model, who has made a difference in your life, please put her forward. The awards ceremony will be part of the International Women's Day Celebrations at the Council House. For further details, or to nominate a woman, please contact shagufta.kasour@bristol.gov.uk or download this form.
Council House, 2pm - 4pm
Sunday 27th February 2011
Pub Quiz!
We need to raise some cash to help cover the costs of the Watershed event. What better way than a battle of the wits to test our feminist knowledge? Come along, form a team, answer some questions, buy some raffle tickets and even win a prize! We look forward to seeing you there. Venue info.
Under the Stars Cafe, Harbourside, Bristol. 8-11pm
Thursday 17th February 2011
Sisterhood
Sisterhood was one of the tenets of the feminist movement. But as feminists do we always behave in a sisterly manner? Sisterhood isn't about liking every woman you meet. But there is something to be said for behaving in a sisterly way. Supporting one another. Not joining in the media bullying of women. Thinking about how our actions impact on other women. Do feminists always treat women in a sisterly manner, or with respect? Lets talk about it!
Cafe Kino, Bristol. 7-9pm
February 2011
LGBT History Month
February 2011 is Lesbian, Gay, Bi & Trans History Month, and Bristol plays host to a huge range of events to celebrate. Bristol Central Library have agreed to offer space for an exhibition of LGBT women's history, and all we need is material to display. Were you around in the 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s or 80s (don't worry, you don't have to remember it!) Or even the 90s? Do you have photos, posters, flyers, mementos, letters etc that you'd be willing to loan for display in the library during February 2011? Or even your own memories that you'd be willing to write up for us to display? Please contact Emily on lgbtwomenwriting@gmail.com
Alongside this, a creative writing workshop for LGBT women is also being held on Thursday 17th of February. Places are limited, and must be booked in advance on the address above.
Paper Village, Southville. £3 on the door
