Emmeline Pankhurst Statue in Manchester

A Monument to a Suffragette Icon

The Emmeline Pankhurst Statue, affectionately called ‘Our Emmeline,’ is a striking bronze sculpture located in Manchester’s St. Peter’s Square. Created by acclaimed sculptor Hazel Reeves, it commemorates Emmeline Pankhurst, the formidable political activist and leader of the British suffragette movement. Standing 2.5 meters tall, the statue captures Pankhurst mid-speech during the pivotal years of 1908-09, embodying her fiery determination as she rallies women to rise up and demand their right to vote.

Historical Significance and Unveiling

Unveiled on December 14, 2018, exactly 100 years after the first British women voted in a general election, the statue marks a landmark moment in Manchester’s history. The unveiling was a large public event attended by thousands, including schoolchildren and activists, featuring marches from symbolic locations such as the People’s History Museum and the Pankhurst Centre. This event celebrated not only Pankhurst’s legacy but also the broader struggle for women’s suffrage and equality.

Artistic Vision and Community Engagement

Hazel Reeves’ design was selected through a public vote, reflecting strong community support. Reeves, who has a background in promoting women’s rights, worked closely with local women and activists during the statue’s creation. Surrounding the statue is the ‘meeting circle,’ a white stone installation also designed by Reeves, symbolizing unity and dialogue. The statue project was driven by the WoManchester Statue Campaign, which sought to address the historical lack of female representation in Manchester’s public monuments.

Location and Cultural Context

Situated in the heart of Manchester’s city centre, the statue stands among a predominantly male collection of public statues, making it a unique and powerful symbol of female empowerment. The location in St. Peter’s Square places it near key cultural institutions, including the Pankhurst Centre, a museum dedicated to the suffragette movement, and the People’s History Museum, further embedding it within the city’s rich heritage of social justice activism.

Legacy and Continuing Impact

The Emmeline Pankhurst Statue serves as a focal point for celebrations of women’s rights and continues to inspire activism and education. It is a testament to Manchester’s progressive spirit and a reminder of the ongoing journey toward gender equality. The statue’s presence encourages reflection on the sacrifices made by suffragettes and the importance of civic engagement.

Symbolism and Design Details

Reeves’ sculpture portrays Pankhurst standing on a kitchen chair, a reference to her impromptu speeches that galvanized crowds. The dynamic pose and expressive detail convey urgency and passion. The surrounding meeting circle invites visitors to gather, converse, and reflect, reinforcing the statue’s message of empowerment and collective action.