The WI is still largely white middle class, is anything being done to attract women of different ethnicities?
The WI is a very diverse organisation with members of all ages and backgrounds. The majority of ethnic communities are found in cities and towns rather than rural areas, where WIs have traditionally been based. As a result, we have a low proportion of members from ethnic backgrounds. However, as new WIs are formed in urban and suburban areas, more women from ethnic backgrounds are joining the organisation; and we are continually seeking ways to increase ethnic membership. We aim to make the WI open and relevant to all women and are updating national publications and marketing materials to reflect the growing diversity of our membership. We believe campaigns such as human trafficking, children’s diets, sport for all and trade justice illustrate the WI’s wide-ranging activities on issues important to all kinds of women from all kinds of backgrounds.
