'A stepping stone for women’s rights' – How laws have changed women’s lives
6 February 2018
As part of Vote 100, women share their personal stories of how laws passed by Parliament have changed their lives for the better.
100 years ago Parliament passed The Representation of the People Act, which gave the first women and all men the right to vote. To celebrate, Parliament have created ‘Your Story Our History’, three short films focusing on laws that have contributed to women’s rights and continued to empower them.
Tobi’s Story
In light of the 100th anniversary of the Representation of the People Act in 1918, Tobi shares her experience of voting for the first time and how the Act has gone on to empower women from all backgrounds.
Sarian’s Story
Sarian shares her personal account of female genital circumcision and explains how the 2003 Female Genital Mutilation Act protects women and girls at risk in the UK.
Therese and Courtenay
In their story, friends Therese and Courtenay explore how the 1967 Abortion Act and the 1946 NHS Act have impacted women’s rights to healthcare. Despite having different experiences, they show how the Acts have changed the lives of women, whatever they choose.
Your Story, Our History series 1 and 2
The Your Story Our History Series looks at laws passed by Parliament and the impact that these have had on real lives.
Series 1
2016’s theme looked at how Parliament race relations laws helped change the lives of people within the Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) group.
Series 2
In 2017 the films focused on laws around relationships, gender identity and sexual orientation and the impact this has had on the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender+ communities (LGBT+).
Get involved
Wherever you live, no matter who you are or your background, the laws made by UK Parliament affect and shape all areas of your life.
Find out how you can make your voice heard.