Activism for 'introverts': Craftivists find their political voice

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

Auckland crafters are on a mission to change the world one stitch at a time.

The newly-launched Craftivist​ Companions are turning to needlework to find their political voice at Ponsonby's Unitarian Church in central Auckland.

Ten “introverted” activists are creating mini protest banners
– the square placards will form a temporary quilt that will be presented to Auckland Council on April 1 for the updated living wage announcement.

The banners will then be left as “respectful graffiti” on public spaces such as lamp posts.

Group founder and church member Kay​ Parish​ said the goal was to get people thinking from a different perspective.

A midwife driven by a strong dislike of injustice, she was inspired by a movement in England led by Sarah Corbett and the Craftivist​ Collective.

“Sarah talks about craftivism as being an ideal form of activism for introverts, people who don’t love getting out there shouting and challenging people in a confrontational way,” said Parish.

“Craftivism is a way of approaching people more gently and presenting a message in a more respectful and thoughtful way.”

Corbett’s group persuaded British retailer Marks & Spencer to pay its workers a living wage by giving every board member a personalised hand-embroidered handkerchief explaining why paying a living wage should fit with their values.

“The board members really took that message on board ...and it just shifted their perspective,” Parish said.

The Titirangi resident said paying people a fair wage helped them live their lives with dignity.

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