FIFTY quilts will be on display at Parliament House on March 7 to mark the 50th anniversary of International Women’s Day.
The exhibition has been organised by 79-year-old Bev Perel, of Victoria Point, who said it was important to remember and continue the work done by inspiring women.
Since 2006, 1200 women have contributed blocks in suffragette colours of green, white, and purple, which have been sewn together to create the quilts on display.
The suffragette Emmeline Pethick-Lawrence, later Pankhurst, used purple for loyalty and dignity, white for purity, and green for hope.
“The blocks tell stories about the times and the women who made a difference. Every block represents gender empowerment and women’s equality,” Ms Perel said.
Ms Perel, a former owner of Melany Magic Patchwork and Quilts, has been an advocate for women’s rights and community events.
She previously hosted an International Women’s Day lunch every year.
A highlight for Ms Perel has been seeing women discover their blocks in the finished quilts.
She emphasised the importance of crafting as a time-honoured tradition among women, noting the shared experience of making the quilts brought women together to share stories and experiences.
“International Women’s Day is a chance to honour the work of inspiring women and to hear them speak,” she said.
