For one day in October 2023, women will be taking over the Senedd for an inspirational event designed to enthuse the next generation of women in politics.
We Belong Here: Women’s Takeover of the Senedd | Lle i Ni: Diwrnod Menywod yn y Senedd, is a major event organised by Women’s Equality Network (WEN) Wales and Elect Her.
Hosted at the Senedd on Saturday 21 October 2023, the aim is to bring together women of Wales to connect, mobilise, and champion their role in Welsh democracy.
On International Women’s Day, the Llywydd of the Senedd, Elin Jones MS is proud to announce the Senedd’s support for this exciting event with the purpose of breaking down barriers so that more diverse women are able to be involved in public and political life.
Elin Jones MS, Llywydd of the Senedd says: “I fully support We Belong Here’s aim to empower and inspire more diverse women into politics. The Senedd has a strong record of female representation, but we must continue to do all we can to encourage the next generation. The take-over event this autumn will open opportunities for women to find their voice and demand their place at the heart of Welsh politics.”
Information about the event and how women can take part is available here. The day will include a schedule of sessions, workshops and meetings with female Members of the Senedd.
This event takes place in solidarity with WEN Wales’ Diverse5050 campaign for equal and diverse representation for women in Wales - particularly women from Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority backgrounds, LGBTQ+ women, Disabled women, and women with other protected characteristics.
Evelyn James, Campaign Manager from Women’s Equality Network (WEN) Wales, said, “There can be no true representation if our voice is missing in decision-making. We are calling on all women to come to this event – you are vital to the future of Wales. It is open to you all, we all belong here.”
Hannah Stevens, Chief Executive of Elect Her said, "We are thrilled to be working with Senedd Cymru and WEN Wales in producing We Belong Here / Lle I Ni. Inviting the women of Wales in all our beautiful diversity into the corridors of power is an important part in demonstrating the enormous value that we bring to our democracy. Wales had the first legislative body in the world to have equal numbers of men and women and we are determined to support the next generation of women to return that balance in the Senedd and all spheres of Government in Wales."
Minister for Social Justice, Jane Hutt said, “I’m proud to be a Minister in a Cabinet where more than half of the roles are filled by women as part of a feminist government.
“Of course, this isn’t always the case across Wales and there is much more work to do. Our Advancing Gender Equality in Wales plan sets out our ambition to achieve gender equality and includes commitments related to improving representation in leadership roles.
“Events like this are the perfect example of how women from all different backgrounds can work together to achieve the change we need to see.”
More information and register your interest in the event
