Sex Education (Press, 22 June 1988)

In a letter published on 22 June 1988, V. R. Williams responds to Martin Smith's critique of the Women for Life leaflet titled "Learning to Say No." Williams clarifies that the leaflet does not promote high self-esteem as a solution to sexual desires but rather advocates for the positive choice of saying "no" as a means of achieving self-restraint, which can ultimately enhance self-esteem. The leaflet encourages teenagers to have control over their sexuality instead of suppressing it. Williams raises concerns about the distribution of this leaflet in secondary schools across New Zealand, questioning how many schools presented it alongside other sex education materials. There is an implication that the message of self-control may conflict with a more humanistic philosophy that emphasises what feels right. The letter also highlights that the Ministry of Women’s Affairs declined to fund the distribution of the leaflet, yet circulated a reading list focused on lesbian literature through its newsletter. Williams suggests that it would be beneficial for the ministry to include a list of Women for Life pamphlets in its communications, arguing that this aligns with the goal of empowering women to make informed choices, as stated by feminist writer Dale Spender. The letter articulates a call for broader distribution and acceptance of diverse perspectives within women's health and education dialogue.

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