An electrical connector (16) associated with a component (10) is arranged to releasably receive a conductor (22, 24) and electrically interconnect the conductor to the component. The connector (16) includes a contact member (48) having a shank (62), a pair of first and second opposed beams (64, 66) extending from opposite edges of the shank upwardly into mutual pressing engagement and terminating in outwardly formed flanges (70) that are angled away from each other and from the shank (62). Conductor gripping portions (90, 92) are formed in the two flanges (70). By deflecting the beams (64, 66) the gripping portions (90, 92) are movable to an open position for receiving the conductor therein and movable to a closed position for gripping and electrically contacting the conductor.