This month for War Widows Day, we pay tribute to our founder Jessie Vasey CBE OBE
The War Widows Guild, founded in 1946, grew from humble beginnings into a powerful organisation under the leadership of Jessie Vasey CBE OBE. Initially a small craft guild, it soon became a force that could not be ignored by politicians, thanks to Jessies tireless efforts and visionary leadership. Her goal was clear, to ensure that the women left behind by war were not forgotten, and to fight for their rights and dignity.
Jessie’s vision for the Guild was inspired by the changing role of women in society. She believed that the era of the dependent female was coming to an end and that Australia had a duty to care for the war widows who had sacrificed so much. She stood against the prevailing gender and social biases of her time, holding the government accountable for its promises to support these women.
Jessie’s words of encouragement, such as “THINK BIG! – Wear your prettiest hat – tell that man behind the desk he’s there to help you!” became a rallying cry for many widows, empowering them to stand up for themselves in a system that wasn’t built to support them.
The reality for many war widows in the post-World War II era was harsh. These women, often young brides with children, were left to navigate life without their husbands. Financial insecurity was a common struggle, as the war widows pension offered little, often leaving women with less than the lowest army wage. Jessie, having lost her own husband, Major General George Vasey, in a tragic plane crash, knew this struggle all too well. Her first victory for the war widows came when she successfully fought to have her husband’s death, and the deaths of others in similar circumstances, recognised as war caused.
Driven by a deep sense of responsibility, Jessie fought not only for her peers but for the future generations of war widows and veteran families. She secured better pensions, advocated for housing stability, and created practical initiatives like jumble sales and shops to help these women rebuild their lives. Jessie’s work was not just about financial aid, it was about restoring dignity, purpose, and hope. She inspired war widows to rise above their grief and take control of their futures, giving them the confidence to reclaim their independence.
Jessie Vasey’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched. Her dedication ensured that war widows would never be forgotten, and her work continues to inspire today. She transformed a group of women from a position of vulnerability into one of strength and unity, leaving an indelible mark on history. Her example is a reminder of the power of determination, resilience, and the enduring strength of women coming together to support one another.
