Women and the Russian Revolution

What can we learn from women’s role in the Russian Revolution? What would a revolutionary socialist-feminist movement look like today?
About this Event

Socialist Cafe Discussion - Bristol Workers Liberty

Thu 9th July 2026 - 7.30-9pm

Watershed Cafe (1 Canon’s Rd, BS1 5TX)

Women and the Russian Revolution

On International Working Women's Day 1917, working class Russian women held a big demonstration in Petrograd. They wanted the war and the food shortage to end: they wanted bread and peace. The Petrograd women started a movement which led to revolution. The Russian Revolution was the only occasion in history when the working class took power and held onto it for a significant period of time. 

Much of the history about the revolution plays down the significant role played by women both practically and as thinkers during the revolution. Once the Bolsheviks took power they scrapped old reactionary laws and religious practices that limited women’s freedom. Divorce and abortion were decriminalised and women were given full legal and political equality. Communal kitchens, laundries, schools and nurseries were set-up to liberate women from the burden of housework.

What can we learn from women’s role in the Russian Revolution? What would a revolutionary socialist-feminist movement look like today?

Join Bristol Alliance for Workers’ Liberty to discuss these questions. These meetings are open to all. Discussion and disagreement encouraged.