Editor,

The year is 1903, a woman named Emmeline Pankhurst takes a decision that would change history for women.

She announced the beginning of a new organisation named ‘Women’s Social and Political Union’ (WSPU) which would champion women’s right to vote.

The WSPU would quickly evolve from the genteel wielding placards and marches to frontline confrontations to further their cause. In so doing, the government would denounce them, and they would become outcasts from society.

Mrs Pankhurst and her daughter were imprisoned, time and time again. Estimates in 1912, concluded that around 260 members of WSPU (Suffragettes) were in prison.

In 1913, an event would shock Society: Emily Davidson, frustrated by the years of campaigning and seemingly no nearer to being given the vote, on 4 June, she decided to attract King George V’s attention by running in front of his racehorse at the Epsom Derby. She was instantly killed.

To what extent her death affected the King, government and society we shall never know, but it brought home that members of the WSPU were prepared to sacrifice their lives for their beliefs.

On 6 February 1918, women were given the right to vote. Mrs Pankhurst went on to become an MP.

In 2020, with the passing of 102 years, women have forged ahead in society working in all types of industries and most would consider that they are equal to men!

Then, why are we still plagued with domestic abuse on women?

Political statistics reveal that of the domestic-related incidents and crimes ending in March 2019 for England and Wales 746.219 were recorded as Domestic Abuse and was up by 24 per cent.

Recently, the #MeToo campaign highlighted abuse of women in the arts world.

After the anniversary of the freedom for women to vote on 6 February, I am reminded of those strong members of the WSPU who were prepared to sacrifice everything.

It was Emmeline Pethick Lawrence who designed a colour scheme for the Suffragettes. Brooches were made in these colours and bought by supporters. Purple: for loyalty and dignity – White: for purity – Green: for hope. I would add ‘Courage’ – let us lean on theirs!

Stella Celia, Ystrad Meurig, Aberystwyth.

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