LETTER: WI operates an open-door policy

Edith West
Monday 11 September 1995 18:02 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

From Mrs Edith West

Sir: The answer to the question posed about the Women's Institute "Why are these women all white?" (Section Two, 7 September) is surely "because it is mainly a gathering of countrywomen", and people of other nationalities tend to congregate in towns.

The WI was formed over 75 years ago to improve the life of women in rural areas. A few years back, the national executive rushed to create city branches; but this move was not 100 per cent popular, it being considered that these were catered for by the Townswomen's Guild, and that we shouldn't poach.

Nowadays, there are many more opportunities available to improve education or skills in town or country, but Women's Institutes are still found mainly in rural areas.

Yours truly

Edith West

Barford, Warwickshire

7 September

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in