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International Women's Day 2026
Celebrate. Support. Empower: International Women’s Day in East Sussex
​Every year on March 8th, the world pauses to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). It is a day rooted in a century of activism, but it remains a vital catalyst for the future. In East Sussex, from the cliffs of Seven Sisters to the creative hubs of Hastings, Lewes, and Polegate, our community of women continues to prove that when we lift each other up, the whole county rises.
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This year’s theme, "Give to Gain," speaks to the heart of Sussex life. It’s about the transformative power of mentorship and the idea that by sharing our time, wisdom, and resources, we all become richer.
A Legacy of Reform: Where it All Began
IWD wasn't born in a boardroom; it was born in the streets. Its roots trace back to 1908, when 15,000 women marched through New York City demanding shorter hours, better pay, and the right to vote.
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By 1911, the first official International Women's Day was honored across Europe. Today, it serves as both a celebration of how far we’ve come and a sobering reminder of the work still needed to achieve true equity.
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East Sussex: A Home for Radical Women
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Our corner of the UK has long been a sanctuary for women who dare to be different. We stand on the shoulders of giants who called East Sussex home, such as Virginia Woolf in Rodmell and the tireless Suffragettes of Brighton & Hove. In 1910, suffragettes Mary Leigh and Eva Bourne were arrested after hiding inside the Brighton Dome organ to interrupt Prime Minister Asquith.
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Today, that radical spirit of care and activism lives on through local groups like Third Moon Women.
Based in East Sussex, Third Moon Women (TMW) is a shining example of the "Give to Gain" philosophy in action. This online and local community is dedicated to empowering women through every stage of life, fostering a space where experiences are shared and triumphs are celebrated.
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The women of Third Moon Women show that "giving" takes many forms:
* Giving to the Environment: The TMW gardening group tends to community apple trees at Polegate Here is the updated article, now featuring the inspiring work of the Third Moon Women and how their local grassroots activism perfectly embodies the "Give to Gain" spirit in East Sussex.
Celebrate. Support. Empower: International Women’s Day in East Sussex
Every year on March 8th, the world pauses to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD). It is a day rooted in a century of activism, but it remains a vital catalyst for the future. In East Sussex, from the cliffs of Seven Sisters to the creative hubs of Hastings, Lewes, and Polegate, our community of women continues to prove that when we lift each other up, the whole county rises.
​
This year’s theme, "Give to Gain," speaks to the heart of Sussex life. It’s about the transformative power of mentorship and the idea that by sharing our time, wisdom, and resources, we all become richer.
Spotlight: Third Moon Women
Based in East Sussex, Third Moon Women (TMW) is a shining example of the "Give to Gain" philosophy in action. This online and local community is dedicated to empowering women through every stage of life, fostering a space where experiences are shared and triumphs are celebrated.
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The women of Third Moon Women show that "giving" takes many forms:
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* Giving to the Environment: The TMW gardening group tends to community apple trees at Polegate Windmill, literally planting the seeds for future generations to enjoy. Their eco-activism groups focus on sustainable practices and a healthier planet.
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* Giving through Creativity: Their Community Patchwork Crone Cloak project is a beautiful symbol of solidarity. Women come together in sewing and craft groups to contribute patches to a cloak designed to provide comfort and expression—a literal tapestry of their collective lives.
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* Giving Support: From discussing feminist issues and gender equality to navigating health and age-related challenges, these women provide a "circle" of encouragement that proves we gain emotional resilience when we offer it to others.​
"Give to Gain": Community in Action
The philosophy of "Give to Gain" is about more than charity; it is about reciprocity. When the women of East Sussex invest in one another, the rewards are felt by everyone.
How We Support Each Other Locally:
* Skill-Sharing: Whether it’s naturopathy, bread-making workshops, or digital skills, East Sussex women are moving away from gatekeeping knowledge and toward open mentorship.
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* Safe Spaces: Groups like TMW provide an inclusive environment for women of all faiths (and none), ensuring that no woman in our county has to navigate her journey alone.
* Seasonal Celebrations: By honouring the rhythms of nature and the seasons together, local women are reclaiming their time and mental well-being.
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How to Celebrate This Year
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Celebrating IWD isn't just about a social media post; it’s about tangible action.
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* Support a Local Maker: Visit a female-owned shop in The Lanes or a Sussex farmer's market.
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* Join a Circle: Look into groups like Third Moon Women to find a community where you can both offer support and receive it.
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* Contribute to a Collective Project: Whether it's planting a tree or adding a stitch to a community quilt, find a way to leave your mark on the Sussex landscape.
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>"Being part of Third Moon Women has been a transformative experience. The support and encouragement I've received from this community have helped me grow in ways I never imagined." – Maya Thompson, TMW Member.
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This International Women’s Day, let’s remember that in East Sussex, our greatest strength is each other. When we give our support, our energy, and our craft, we all gain a brighter, more connected future.
Reflection on Women’s Leadership in Conflict Zones 2026
Third Moon Women celebrated International Women's Day
with a small ceremonial meal, where we remembered women in war-torn countries. Here we share a taster of our evening with those who couldn't be with us.
“Of the 15 countries currently under missile or rocket attack, none have female heads of state or government."
Leadership in these regions remains overwhelmingly male, even as millions of women and children live with the consequences of war.
Tonight, as we gather to send peace outward, we also honour the power, wisdom, and resilience of women everywhere, those who are leading communities, raising families, and holding hope in the darkest times.
Even when leadership structures are dominated by men, women’s voices, compassion, and courage radiate influence far beyond titles, shaping healing, survival, and the future.
Photo C.M.
Photo K.L.
Let this our gathering remind us that peace begins in hearts that dare to act, regardless of official power
We honour women’s courage and send our compassion across the world as families die under the guise of a better world."
An extract from this evening's TMW International Women’s Day ceremony.
Janelle
As part of the ceremony, we created a shared meal. We brought together a Seven Seeds dish, each participant contributing an ingredient. The seven-seed dish was a reflection of the many foods eaten(in the world’s war-torn areas) and of the symbolism they themselves represent.
Ingredients & Symbolism (Gluten-Free, Vegan)
1. Quinoa – Nourishment, abundance, connection to the earth (gluten-free, vegan alternative to wheat)
2. Buckwheat – Strength, resilience, sustenance (naturally gluten-free, vegan alternative to barley)
3. Lentils – Community and shared resources
4. Chickpeas – Compassion and unity
5. Pomegranate seeds – Hope, renewal, sweetness
6. Pumpkin seeds – Protection, grounding
7. Sunflower seeds – Warmth, energy, light
Optional: Sprinkle lightly with maple syrup or agave for a sweet blessing, still vegan.
Photo K.L.
Photo by Clement Eastwood
Ritual End
“The peace we have shared in this circle
we now carry with us into the world.
May our words be kind,
our actions bring healing,
and our hearts remain open.
"May peace travel with each of us
and find its way to every land.”
Give to Gain
To give a hand
To share a light
To offer space for dreams to grow
And watch the seeds of talent sow
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When we empoшеr
We rise as one
A race that's never truly won
For kindness sown in hearts and mind
Is the truest strength that we can find
So, give your truest strength, your time your grace
And lift another in their place
For in this world the simple strain
To truly live is giving to gain.
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- K.W.H.