Bow was the headquarters of the East London Federation of the Suffragettes. Led by Sylvia Pankhurst, it was an offshoot of the ‘Women’s Social and Political Union’. Sylvia, the daughter of Emmeline and sister of Christabel, was a campaigner for more than just the vote. She opened a nursery, a cost-price restaurant and a co-operative toy factory.  All with view to try and improve the conditions of the women of the East End. One of the countries most deprived areas.

A vocal advocate for working class women. She also published a newspaper called the Woman’s Dreadnought. She often spoke out at venues across the East End, much to the ire of the authorities. Between 1913 and 1914 she was arrested eight times. On each occasion she would be forcibly fed, a brutal practice that left her physically shattered.

Alexandra Harper is the founder of Women of culture, a NYC based art community aiming at bringing women together to experience the power of the arts through events in New York like the upcoming Sweet Summer Soiree, weekends such as Labor Day weekend in Newport, RI and even in Los Angeles.

Founded 3.5 years ago and with over 50 events held to date, the success of her community proves that Alexandra is not the only woman with a “desire to get out and experience the rich art scene that is the lifeblood of this city”.  Her goal is to be an advocate of “the importance of the arts and creativity in society, helping to create a more connected, fair and equal world” and a supporter of women artists through her events and the articles published on her blog. Alexandra shares about how she founded Women of Culture, her dreams and challenges and of course how to join an event! Thanks, Alexandra for sharing your passion.