For the past forty-five years, the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press has been working for media democracy and media justice. Founded in 1972, the institute unveiled its work by publishing the first edition of the “Media Report on Women” (what women were doing and thinking to make the world’s communications media more democratic). This report was edited by Dr. Donna Allen, and she continued to publish this report through 1987.
Forty-five years later, the Institute continues to operate under the leadership of Martha Leslie Allen. They have increased communications, nationally and internationally through various types of media, such as periodicals, news services, art, film, music, etc.
During the decades of the 1970s and 1980s, the Institute held several conferences at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. on planning a national and international communications system for women.
Between 1980 and 1985, the Institute held two international satellite teleconferences from the United Nations World Conference of Women in Copenhagen and Nairobi.
In more recent years, the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press has collaborated with several women’s organization to support the end to violence and injustices against women and girls. This effort includes their continued partnership and support of Global Woman P.E.A.C.E Foundation in the campaign to end female genital mutilation/cutting (FGM/C). Several years ago Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation approached the Institute and requested their assistance and support in the campaign against FGM/C. Martha Leslie Allen welcomed the partnership and support. To date, the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press and Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation continue FGM/C.
As part of the 45th anniversary celebration of the Institute, their associates, partners and friends will join the institute in a special reception on Saturday, January 21st. If you are interested in attending this reception, please send an email to ourmediademocracy@gmail.com.
Global Woman P.E.A.C.E. Foundation extends congratulations to the Women’s Institute for Freedom of the Press on promoting women and the media for the past 45 years!
