Strategic Dis/Engagement: Rural Feminist Organizing in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, 1982-1989

Abstract

This thesis analyzes a rural, feminist organization in formation during the 1980s. It describes second wave feminist organizing, paying particular attention to the relationship between objectives, organizational strategies, and omissions. Through close study of the Antigonish Women's Association, and in particular, the organization's approach to debates about two significant second wave topics, abortion and pornography, the specific challenges of working towards social change in a rural, Catholic community are revealed. Examining the impact of engagement and disengagement as organizational strategies, this thesis utilizes the institutional records of the Antigonish Women's Association, input from former board members, and media coverage of women's activities during the period to illustrate the intricacies of rural second wave organizing.