Emma Thompson Backs Charity Supporting Women Living in Poverty

by · December 17, 2016

‘Tis the season of giving, so if you’re in a particularly charitable mood, then look no further than the Yours, Mrs Claus blog, launched by ActionAid UK to increase the profiles of poverty-stricken women and girls around the world.

According to the Hamilton Spectator, Emma Thompson – whom we all know as Professor Trelawney from the Harry Potter movies – is backing the campaign, along with British comedian Jo Brand.

The blog uses stories, anecdotes, references to pop culture, and writing from celebrities, including both Thompson and Brand, in order to shine a light on the lives of the hidden women who struggle to find food on a daily basis.

Thompson notes that,

I was inspired by this campaign and the synergy that it draws between the often ‘hidden’ Mrs Claus, and the work that ActionAid does to support some of the most marginalised women and girls living in the poorest parts of the world.

I have seen for myself how ActionAid champions these women and works with local volunteers to empower them to change their lives for good.

As for the reasons behind using Mrs. Claus as the voice of the website, Jessica Holland, Head of Brand Marketing and PR Action at ActionAid UK, added that,

Mrs Claus is often portrayed as a nameless, voiceless, stereotyped and hidden woman, which made her the perfect character to bring to life the story of the women and children we help around the world.

As a charity, we didn’t have millions, like the big retailers. Instead we made the mechanic the message – hiding the blog in plain sight, just like the women we help creating a campaign that’s all about the journey.

By doing this, we’re raising awareness of all the other women who need support but who we don’t see – and through our Gifts in Action we will encourage people to think a little differently about the festive season; not as a season of consumerism, but as the season of giving, not gifts.

Of course, this isn’t the first time Thompson has publicly involved herself in a charitable cause. Back in May, she appeared on the US version of “Red Nose Day,” as well as endorsing the TIE (Time for Inclusive Education campaign) in March.

You can find out more about the Yours, Mrs Claus campaign by clicking here!