Greenham Togetherness Impresses N. Z. Women (Press, 27 September 1984)

On 27 September 1984, Maynie Thompson, a retired dental nurse from New Zealand, took part in a significant protest at Greenham Common, a cruise missile base in Berkshire, England. Alongside approximately 5,000 women, including 11 from New Zealand, Thompson joined veterans from the Greenham Common peace camp to mark the camp's third anniversary. The protest was timed to coincide with NATO's exercise Lionheart taking place in Germany. Thompson provided insight into the activism at the site, expressing disbelief at the disparity between the success women experienced in their efforts and the lack of global progress. She recounted her experience with the police, describing a moment when she was roughly removed from a blockade but reassured others that it wasn't overly serious. The shared spirit among the women at Greenham Common impressed her, as they demonstrated cohesion and camaraderie. Thompson highlighted one particular imaginative action where seeds were blown onto barren areas of the base as a symbol of life, reflecting the creative and meaningful nature of their protests. She remarked on the media's misrepresentation of the women at the camp, countering the narrative that depicted them only as militant activists. Instead, she emphasized the diversity and warmth of the participants. The New Zealand women were living in makeshift tents near the base, experiencing the camp environment, which Thompson described as relatively tidy despite some regular campers residing in less comfortable conditions. Kit Nelson, another participant from Waiheke Island, echoed Thompson's sentiments about the inspiring spirit of the women. She noted that their presence offered hope, especially in light of New Zealand's recent political shifts regarding nuclear policy. Nelson illustrated the stark contrast between the camp's natural beauty and the utilitarian nature of the military base, which she likened to a "concentration camp." The group of New Zealand women garnered considerable media attention, being featured on platforms like ITV and the BBC, as well as in various newspapers. The Guardian captured images of them with signs identifying their origin and sharing moments of warmth, such as brewing tea around a fire by the base's entrance. Over the preceding days, police had made around 20 arrests amid the gatherings, but according to a police spokesman, the protests were manageable without major incidents. A group of women, however, did face restraint after breaching a section of the base's fencing. The protests were scheduled to continue until the following Sunday, underscoring the dedication and resolve of those involved.

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