Gender Equality: 40 Years On!

Gender Equality: 40 Years On! introduces the work and activism of Birmingham based women. The project investigates women’s contribution to addressing gender equality in Birmingham. The Barbara Webster Collection is the starting point for a research project which included an exhibition, Roundtable discussion and a series of oral history podcasts produced by Dr. Siobhán Stevenson.

The research aims to make historical links between current concerns with diversity and equality in the arts, and activities linked to the Women’s Liberation Movement from the mid 1980s, Birmingham, UK. The project explores a newly acquired collection of archival materials, donated by Barbara Webster, head of the Women’s Unit (1984-87) at Birmingham City Council. The project highlights the significance of the work done by women in the 1980s, ensuring that their voices and legacy continues to be heard. The podcasts and exhibition reflect on gender equality then and now, by considering how past voices, campaigns and activism helps us challenge contemporary inequalities.

Listen to the oral history podcasts from the project

Produced by oral historian Dr. Siobhán Stevenson, the podcasts capture the voices and stories of women involved in addressing inequalities in Birmingham, in the 1980s. Each podcast includes two women in conversation, discussing their experience and reflecting on the challenges of working towards gender equality. They explore collective power, intersectional identities, race, sexuality and the representation of diverse women’s stories. The women participating in the podcasts have been generous with their time, thoughtful in their approach and the outcome is a significant contribution to women’s local history.

Sincere thanks to all the women involved in the podcasts: Ming de Nasty, Mo White, Sue Gorbing, Emma Woolf, Surinder Punn and Dr. Karen Patel. Particular thanks to Dr Siobhán Stevenson for her expertise, guidance and kindness.

You can also explore the booklet which reproduces and celebrates the Gender Equality: 40 Years On! exhibition that took place in March 2024.

The research project is funded by the British Academy Leverhulme Small Grant Scheme based on the Barbara Webster Collection. For more information about ADM Archive and how to access the Barbara Webster Collection, contact the Arts Design and Media Archive ADM-Archives-Requests@bcu.ac.uk.

To find out more about the Gender Equality: 40 Years On! research project, contact annette.naudin@bcu.ac.uk.