Exeter Gets Together for International Women’s Day

Local groups and people from across Devon have been gathering at Oxfam's Exeter shop this morning (Wednesday 13th February 2013) to launch Oxfam’s Get Together campaign for International Women’s Day, which raises money to support women living in poverty worldwide.

Over lemonade and delicious cakes generously baked by local companies Cherry on the Top, Sylvania Cakes and MaD cakes, the launch event will see men and women coming together to discuss inspiring ideas for Get Together events to be held on International Women’s Day on 8th March. An Oxfam Get Together can be absolutely anything; from cocktails or a movie night at home, to a killer quiz with colleagues or even just a cup of tea/coffee with friends.  

Elsie Bryant, Oxfam Get Together Marketing Assistant said: "International Women's Day is not only a fantastic celebration of women, but it allows us all to reflect on the importance of achieving gender equality and securing fair rights and opportunities for women worldwide. 

“I am delighted that individuals and groups across Devon will celebrate International Women's Day by hosting events with friends and family as part of Oxfam's Get Together campaign to raise money and awareness for their work with women living in poverty. I would urge you all to find out more about the Get Together campaign, host your own, attend others and do your bit to ensure that the future for women, both in the UK and across the world, is bright, equal, safe and rewarding."

The majority of people living in poverty are women. Get Together raises money for Oxfam’s work transforming the lives of women around the world who are experiencing poverty, discrimination, domestic violence and a lack of education. Oxfam helps women reclaim their rights and make their voices heard; from helping girls access schools in Burkina Faso to supporting women farmers in Ethiopia to become entrepreneurs and provide for their families.

Get Together is one of the UK’s largest celebrations of International Women’s Day - which is a national holiday in a number of countries around the world, including Afghanistan, Russia and Zambia.  Last year, thousands of people took part in Get Together events across the UK. Oxfam hopes even more women and men will hold Get Togethers in 2013.

To find out how to put on an Oxfam Get Together for International Women’s Day visit www.oxfam.org.uk/gettogether