NATIONAL COUNCIL OF "WOMEN

Cromwell Argus, Volume XXX, Issue 1513, 10 May 1898, Page 5

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF "WOMEN

A Sensible Criticism. Miss Ethel Benjamin, in her paper on “ The Inequalities of the Law regarding Men and Women,” which was rejected by the National Council of the Women of New Zealand, says in criticism ; “ Not that I am not a warm supporter of the women’s movement —no one takes a keener interest than 1 in the true advancement of my sex. At the same time, 1 do not think that the world can be entirely changed in a day. Festina Unit is a good old motto —follow it. It appears to me the height of absurdity for a few political tyros to settle in a moment, questions of gigantic import, questions which would merit the earnest and careful consideration of politicians of life-long experience. And 1 would especially warn the Council against seeking to meddle with the relations of husband and wife. For instance, the Council glibly talk about the Economic Independence of Married Women, and after a short and totally inadequate discussion unanimously pass resolutions which, I venture to affirm, few, if any of tnem, thoroughly understand. I would ask: Does any delegate present know how such resolutions could be carried into effect ? Has any one of you a definite and workable scheme to propose ? And, assuming that she has, are you all thoroughly convinced that the possible good to result will outweigh the probable evil ? In my opinion, until you are sure of these facts, and know that your motion could be carried into effect, no one of you should vote in favor of it. To do so, calls forth the ridioule and scorn of all sensible men and women, and works more harm than thousands of such motions could ever do good. It is really absurd for a few women, as yet policical infants, to meet and in a moment “carry unanimously,” motions which few of them understand, which in all probability are quite impracticable, or which, if given effect to, might revolutionise society in a way that few of them thoroughly appreciate. I have spoken strongly, ray remarks may not meet with the approval of the Council, but, to use a colloquialism, “ Them’s my sentiments,” and it as well that you should know them.