Rotterdam celebrates Rotterdam Year of the Woman

The first Year of the Woman took place in 1975. An international theme year created by the United Nations, during which many emancipation activities also started in Rotterdam. Half a century later, the history, role and position of Rotterdam women in the city is once again being spotlighted. Starting on International Women's Day (8 March), Rotterdam will celebrate the Rotterdamse Jaar van de Vrouw for ten months.

The Rotterdam Year of the Woman will be officially opened on Friday 7 March by Mayor Schouten in the Civic Hall of City Hall. In the evening, there will be an evening of music and dialogue at WORM during the festival FemFest: Step Up! On Saturday 8 March, the Bibliotheek hosts an afternoon with the mayor, Elfie Tromp and Glenda Peters. Followed by a city walk by De Rotterdamse Zijlijn ending at de Doelen. There, a festive evening will take place with Femme Karaoke and Sip 'N Paint. There is also plenty to do at other places in the city and moments throughout the week.

Then, until International Human Rights Day (10 December), there are activities to strengthen networks with Women of Rotterdam. From culture to sports, education to business, science to politics and the social domain. With organisations, initiatives and individuals (v/m/x).

Far from all female talent is tapped and utilised, a loss for the entire Rotterdam community and a reason for attention. Because women who are visible, heard and embedded in good networks contribute to the improvement of the position of many other women and an equal future for all Rotterdammers.

Read more about the Year of Women in the January/February edition of Uitagenda magazine.