WBD's Supuni Perera, has contributed to 'Women's Legal Landmarks: Celebrating the history of women and law in the UK and Ireland', a book which marks 100 years of women in the legal profession.
Women's Legal Landmarks is a unique interdisciplinary collaboration involving over 80 feminist legal and history scholars identifying, researching and producing critical accounts of key legal landmarks for women in the UK and Ireland. The project is led by Erika Rackley, Professor of University of Kent and Rosemary Auchmuty, Professor of University of Reading.
Each landmark marks an important stage or turning point in women's engagement with law and law reform. Together they cover a range of topics, including the right to vote, sex discrimination, the ordination of women bishops as well as the life stories of a number of women who were the first to undertake key legal roles and positions.
Supuni Perera, a paralegal in WBD's Commercial team, contributed to the book with co-writers including; Baroness Hale, President of the Supreme Court; Dr Susan Atkins; and many more. Supuni's contribution was the chapter in the Life Peerages Act 1958. The official launch event will be held in January 2019.
Supuni Perera, commented:
"I am delighted to have been involved in a project that celebrates 100 years of women in law. The chapter on the Life Peerages Act 1958 focuses on the battles of Viscountess Rhondda whose intention was to claim 'the right to have, hold, and possess a seat, place, and voice' in the House of Lords. She was able to witness the passing of the Act, but she died before she could see the first women take their seats in the House of Lords."
