Interview of Iris Kirby
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A Tribute: (From the PACSW newsletter: Women Speak, Vol. 1, No. 1, Winter 83) We thought it only fitting to begin our profile on Newfoundland women with a tribute to an outstanding adopted Newfoundland, Iris Kirby. On January 29, 1983 Iris died peacefully at the Palliative Care Unit at St. Clare's Mercy Hospital. Iris was born 44 years ago in Cheshire, England. After completing an undergraduate degree there, she became an airline stewardess and a teacher, travelled the world, married and had two children before arriving in Newfoundland with her family in 1969. Settling here coincided with a new period of growth and development in Iris's life. She became involved with the women's movement and the social work profession and, after graduating from Memorial University with a BSW in 1971, combined the two interests in her work as Executive Director of the YWCA. She later joined the staff of the Secretary of State as a field officer. In this role she reached out to a wide variety of special interest groups including senior citizens, new Canadians and women. Iris was also a member of the Canadian Association of Social Workers Task Force on Inter Spousal Violence. This task force produced the first statement from any professional group in standards of treatment for victims of family violence. Iris's greatest skill lay in motivating and supporting others to achieve their own goals. The growth of voluntary women's organizations dedicated to improving the status of women in Newfoundland is due in no small part to her efforts. As a volunteer worker herself she was active in her church and on her Parish Council. Underlying all her endeavours was a strong but private Christian faith and a belief in the capacity of human beings to change. Combining her gentle personality with a strong sense of drive, Iris usually accomplished what she set out to do. Iris has made a significant contribution to the women of Newfoundland. Those of us who were involved in the beginnings of status of women councils felt close to her. Our deepest sympathy is extended to her husband, David, and her children, Elizabeth and Simon. We all share in their loss.
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