Event Review – Women’s Network Event – ‘Life in Politics and politics in life’

On Tuesday 26 January, OM Women gathered to hear from Harriet Baldwin MP (LI 1975-77) and Charlotte Carew Pole (PR 1992-94), director of Women2Women, and to discuss the role of women in politics.

It was a fascinating evening. Harriet spoke to those assembled about her route to becoming an MP after an impressive career in the City, what being an MP looks like on the ground – the (not so) average week, the challenges, the privileges, the initiatives and work that she feels passionate about. She also encouraged us women to dive in and get involved and generously offered support and mentoring. Charlotte spoke inspiringly about the reasons why she is fighting to abolish male primogeniture, the hypocrisy of one of the world’s most developed democracies refusing to recognise the equal birth rights of both sexes and the need for more women in politics and public life. Both Harriet and Charlotte made compelling cases, inspired and shared practical advice. It was a privilege to hear their insight.

The evening was chaired by Susannah Tresilian (NC 1992-97) and there were plenty of probing and fascinating questions from the OM women attending on Zoom, including current pupils studying politics, and lively discussion that continued well into the evening.