Soroptimists in Paisley Prepare to Celebrate

Members of Soroptimist International of Paisley held their first face to face meeting for eighteen months last week. The timing was perfect as they prepare to mark the centenary of Soroptimist International on 3rd October with an online conference which will be attended by members from across the globe.

As part of a global ceremony, four candles were lit – one each for the Club, our Region of Scotland South, our Federation of Great Britain and Ireland, and for Soroptimist International itself. Along with our Soroptimist sisters, we wish for a brilliant future for all women and girls.

The very first Soroptimist Club was founded in Oakland, California on 3rd October 1921. The first major project undertaken by the Oakland Club concerned the environment with legislative advocacy to “Save the Redwoods”– the great ancient trees which were being felled unmercifully. Soroptimists lobbied the legislature, took on the powerful lumber companies, and gained public support for the project. The result was that the major portion of the redwoods was set aside in a protected reserve and still stands today. Many trees are being planted by clubs as an appropriate way to mark this special year reflecting our continuing concern with the environment.

In the years that followed, the organisation spread across the globe, expanding and developing the original intent to be a service organisation looking to bring about change to the lives of women and girls worldwide. Through this global network, members are driven by the mission of transforming lives through education, empowerment and by enabling opportunities for women and girls.

To read more about us and our history, visit www.sigbi.org/soroptimistcentenary2021

Ladies in the attached photo L – R: Sheena Macfarlane, Sheena McDonald, Margaret Neil, Elsie Sutherland