Bill Backlash May Hit Women’s Rights—claim (Press, 15 June 1985)

During a luncheon in Wellington on 14 June 1985, more than 200 women gathered to discuss the implications of the proposed Homosexual Law Reform Bill, with a focus on the potential backlash against women's rights. Ms Deirdre Milne from the Human Rights Commission raised concerns that Right-wing, conservative, and fundamentalist movements could target women's rights next, jeopardising the advancements made in the past decade. Milne asserted that the essence of feminism encapsulates a diversity of choice, which is fundamentally opposed by such movements. The Minister of Consumer Affairs, Mrs Shields, echoed these concerns, stating that the Right-wing opposition to change and the increasing violence against women adversely affect those women who have benefited the least from the changes achieved during the United Nations Decade for Women. She pointed out that the primary beneficiaries of these changes have predominantly been well-educated, articulate women with access to confidence and resources. The rise of Right-wing backlash, Shields warned, could further marginalise the least advantaged women. In her address, Shields highlighted that, despite the progress made, women's representation in decision-making positions remains woefully inadequate. She called for more women to be involved in these roles, not merely as equals, but because their unique perspectives contribute essential balance to decision-making. Dame Miriam Dell, the world president of the International Committee for Women, also contributed to the discussion, emphasising that while the Decade for Women had not eliminated barriers faced by women, it had shifted their attitudes toward these obstacles. In conjunction with the event, women were encouraged to support a newly established Women's Trust Fund, intended to promote women's interests in New Zealand. Trustee Brenda Cutress explained that the goal is to build a substantial capital fund, allowing for the annual distribution of interest to support women's initiatives. Overall, the discussions underscored a collective awareness of the potential risks posed by conservative backlashes and the ongoing need for advocacy and representation for women within New Zealand's socio-political landscape.

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