Launceston Daily Telegraph/1903/An open letter to the women of Australia

AN OPEN LETTER TO THE WOMEN OF AUSTRALIA.

We have been requested to publish the following open letter, addressed to the women of Australia, by Jessie S. Rooke, president, and Annie Carvosso, corresponding secretary, Australasian W.C.T.U.:

"The time has come, the first in our history, when we shall have the privilege of assisting by our vote to return to the Federal Parliament the requisite number of Senators and members of the House of Representatives for each State. In using this highest expression of citizenship, we must, remember that it is an opportunity for expressing as far as we can our ideals for the State and Commonwealth, and that we are bound together with all classes and conditions people in a social system, which it is each one's duty to improve and make more favorable for each other, and those who shall live after us. It will be truest wisdom to keep the moral aspect of the franchise before us and to use this new influence for the protection of home life, and for the uplift of humanity.

"Those elected to represent us in the Federal Parliament, in a measure stand as embodiments of our principles, because we have been helped by our votes to place them in the high positions of power they occupy. Is it not therefore desirable that we choose wisely and well, that we consider seriously the aptitude of present candidates to advance the temperance cause, to restrict gambling, to stem immorality, and to lend their voices and vote in the Federal Parliament to every measure that will safeguard the highest interests of the people? By voting for the return of the best men available, for those whose character and principles most commend themselves to our judgment and conscience, we shall help to build up our Commonwealth in those qualities which exalt a nation.

We appeal to you to use your votes faith fully, and show at the polling booth on election day an intelligent, and discreet expression of true citizenship. Any indifference on your part will retard the progress of right, and will be a practical display of lack of a high order of patriotism. We are trustees of a unique and unprecedented privilege, one which carries 'with it solemn duties to God and man add future generations. By a deliberate and firm attitude on the side of right we shall render signal and lasting service to Australia at this important juncture of her history."