"They Compel Us To Be Honest” (Press, 23 June 1977)

On 23 June 1977, a reflective discourse emerged concerning divisions within the feminist movement in New Zealand, particularly between radical and moderate factions. Ann Hercus, a key figure, expressed that while she remains sympathetic to radical feminists, she is wary of their tactics, which she described as unexpected and unprecedented. Hercus acknowledged a growing disillusionment with the radical segment, citing a traumatic experience that has left her hesitant to collaborate with them again. She lamented that the unity among feminists has been significantly compromised. Margaret Wilson, a lecturer in law at the University of Auckland, also weighed in on the ongoing debate. She highlighted that while radical and lesbian perspectives received attention, it was the radical feminists themselves who often rejected alternative views, leading to divisions within the broader feminist agenda. Wilson has been supportive of radical initiatives in the past, yet she indicated her readiness to distance herself from its current iterations, stating that the radicals have caused a rift and declaring her intent to focus on her projects with the Legal Research Foundation. The discord seems to arise from contrasting principles about the direction and strategy of the feminist movement. Some radical feminists perceive the shift towards moderateness as a dilution of their original goals, fearing that compliance with mainstream values could render the movement ineffective. Conversely, members like Anne Hargraves advocate for a more articulate and direct approach, warning against an overemphasis on 'respectability' that may stifle radical voices. Furthermore, the discourse referenced the first United Women’s Convention in 1973, which radicals claimed was strongly driven by their agenda, suggesting that subsequent gatherings have taken a more conservative turn. Wilson countered this claim, defending the convention as not dominated by radical voices. The discussions surrounding the Christchurch convention that followed revealed both the challenges and the contrasting visions for the future of the feminist movement in New Zealand. Overall, the sentiments expressed by Hercus, Wilson, and other participants indicate a significant ideological schism that is impacting the cohesiveness of the women's movement. Such divisions underscore the complexities of feminist advocacy where varying strategies and beliefs exist, ultimately influencing the movement's effectiveness and unity. The dialogue serves as a testament to the ongoing struggle for balance between radical change and moderate reform within the feminist landscape.

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