How much power does a hanky hold? In the right hands, enough to effect real social and political change, said Sarah Corbett, campaigner and founder of the global Craftivist Collective, to Martin Wright and the Hay audience today. In 2011, the group persuaded Marks & Spencer to pay employees a living wage by using sewing needles, the retailers’ hankies and a thoughtful approach to activism.
Corbett detailed and reflected upon creative projects and causes adopted by the collective since it was founded in 2009. She expanded on the craftivist manifesto, laid out in her new book How to be a Craftivist: The Art of Gentle Protest, which advises a positive and personal form of activism.
Corbett was introduced to campaigning at a young age but described herself as “a reluctant activist in lots of ways”. Turning from “shouty” activism to a gentler approach, this craftivist discussed the potential power of creating unique 'gifts' for people in positions of power and explained how even personalised Valentine cards have become useful tools for protesters in recent years.
If you missed this, you might like to go to Event 42, ‘Misogynation’: Laura Bates talks to Owen Sheers tomorrow at 1pm.