Bessie Rischbeith

Overview

Bessie M. Rischbieth (née Earle) born Adelaide, Australia October 16, 1874 (d. 1967). Australian social reformer and feminist leader; peace activist; theosophist. Sculptor and textile designer. Delegate to League of Nations, 1935. Witnessed and supported suffragist struggle, London, 1908. Visited Gandhi's ashram. Led protests against abuse of aborigines. Blocked bulldozers in environmental protest at Narrows Bridge, Perth, 1963.

Quotations

There are women on the warpath
And we mean to make it plain, 
That dictatorial parties
Won't get our vote again!

(1964 poem, in Theosophy in Australia, June 1998, Vol. 62, no. 2; photo Wikipedia)

Amelia Rokotuivuna

Overview

Amelia Rokotuivuna born Fiji August 7, 1941 (d. 2005). Fijian feminist who fought for peace, justice and equality; sat-in at French office in protest for nuclear free Pacific.

Quotations

"[T]he only way forward is to create this kind of caring community. . . There is always hope for the future; hope that things will be better." (film clip at funeral June 9, 2005; photo narseyonfiji.wordpress)

Ruth Russell

Overview

Ruth Russell born Australia March 6, 1946. Co-chair of WILPF Australia; formed human shield during bombing of Baghdad, 2003.

Quotations

“WILPF women share a vision of bringing together women, united in their determination to abolish the causes of war and to work for a constructive peace.” (Radio National, May 27, 2005; photo Wikipedia)