Kia ora, this is promising news for Maori peoples. Posted by Waatea news update 15 May 2009. Taima
Prime Minister John Key says New Zealand could eventually endorse the United Nations Declaration on Indigenous Rights, with some reservations.
Mr Key is working on the issue with Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples.
It's too late to vote for the non-binding declaration, which was passed in 2007 by the UN General Assembly, with only New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the United States voting against.
But Mr Key says New Zealand could follow the Rudd Government in Australia in belatedly accepting the guidelines for dealing with indigenous populations.
“Australia's sort of caveated its position. If New Zealand was to move, there would certainly be some caveats there. We’re working our way through it, and if we can get to a position where we can sign it I think that would be a good thing. It’s another step forward. It’s on the world stage. We’d be viewed in a slightly better way event though the ridiculous thing is we should be viewed a lot better than many of the countries who have signed it because we are actually walking the walk in this country when it comes to the rights of indigenous people,” Mr Key says.
The Treaty of Waitangi gives New Zealand a unique platform to maintain indigenous rights.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Pope grants private audience to residential school survivors
Kia ora, This article can be found in the Native Journal Vol 18, May 2009. It speaks to the efforts of Native leaders seeking an audience with Pope Benedict XVI to address issues for residential school survivors. Taima
Pope grants private audience to residential school survivors:
A delegation of residential school survivors has been granted a rare private audience with the Pope in the Vatican.
The meeting is fuelling hope that Benedict XVI will apologize for abuse in institutions run by Roman Catholic missionary congregations.
The meeting at the Vatican, scheduled for April 29th, comes about after more than two years of diplomatic efforts between Native leaders and the Catholic Church spearheaded by the Archbishop of Winnipeg, James Weisgerber.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops says the Pope will express his concern for Aboriginal peoples in Canada who continue to suffer the impact of residential schools.
The bishop also says he will present the survivors with a signed declaration of the Church's determination to work toward reconciliation with Aboriginal people. Assembly of First Nations Chief Phil Fontaine, who is leading the delegation calls it "a historic and momentous occasion". "We've had apologies from the other denominations, the United Church, the Presbyterian Church and the Anglican Church. We've had the historic apology from the Prime Minister on June 11", Fontaine said. "The one missing piece was the apology from the Catholic Church. When this happens we will be able to begin the important work of healing and reconciliation".
It's not known, however, how far Pope Benedict will go in his statement, or whether it will be the full apology that Native leaders and Elders are hoping to receive. "We're mindful of one thing, and that is traditionally the Catholic Church does not apologize", said Fontaine. "But we hope and pray that there will be an apology, one that will acknowledge the harms inflicted upon innocent children and an acceptance of responsibility for their role in the tragic experience".
Catholic Church missionary congregations ran nearly 75 per cent of Canada's residential schools, which operated from the 1880s up to the 1980s. They were operated with the policy of cultural assimilation, including religious conversion and the extinguishing of Native culture. Children were taken from their families against their will, and many suffered physical and sexual abuse at the schools.
Pope grants private audience to residential school survivors:
A delegation of residential school survivors has been granted a rare private audience with the Pope in the Vatican.
The meeting is fuelling hope that Benedict XVI will apologize for abuse in institutions run by Roman Catholic missionary congregations.
The meeting at the Vatican, scheduled for April 29th, comes about after more than two years of diplomatic efforts between Native leaders and the Catholic Church spearheaded by the Archbishop of Winnipeg, James Weisgerber.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops says the Pope will express his concern for Aboriginal peoples in Canada who continue to suffer the impact of residential schools.
The bishop also says he will present the survivors with a signed declaration of the Church's determination to work toward reconciliation with Aboriginal people. Assembly of First Nations Chief Phil Fontaine, who is leading the delegation calls it "a historic and momentous occasion". "We've had apologies from the other denominations, the United Church, the Presbyterian Church and the Anglican Church. We've had the historic apology from the Prime Minister on June 11", Fontaine said. "The one missing piece was the apology from the Catholic Church. When this happens we will be able to begin the important work of healing and reconciliation".
It's not known, however, how far Pope Benedict will go in his statement, or whether it will be the full apology that Native leaders and Elders are hoping to receive. "We're mindful of one thing, and that is traditionally the Catholic Church does not apologize", said Fontaine. "But we hope and pray that there will be an apology, one that will acknowledge the harms inflicted upon innocent children and an acceptance of responsibility for their role in the tragic experience".
Catholic Church missionary congregations ran nearly 75 per cent of Canada's residential schools, which operated from the 1880s up to the 1980s. They were operated with the policy of cultural assimilation, including religious conversion and the extinguishing of Native culture. Children were taken from their families against their will, and many suffered physical and sexual abuse at the schools.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
NZ Social workers strengthen their voice
Kia ora, below is a media release related to New Zealand social work. Perhaps what is exciting, is that their Congress is raising issues about New Zealand's anti-stance on the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous peoples as well as supporting the strengthening of partnerships with Maori and the Government. Good read, Taima
For Monday 20 April 2009
MEDIA RELEASE /
Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers
Social Workers taking steps to strengthen their voice on social issues
Members of the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (ANZASW) have identified the profound social impacts of the current recession as one of several issues that they will be taking steps to speak out more about in 2009, on behalf of the often “voiceless
At the conclusion of their annual national Congress, held in Wellington over the weekend (Saturday 17 April), ANZASW members collectively identified those areas of social work they expect will carry the brunt of harder economic times and lead to more pressure at the ‘frontline’ of social work.
These included the social issues that arise from any form of increase in poverty, and the likelihood that needs in specific areas of social work such as domestic violence and mental health services, that are already under pressure, may increase even further. This may mean extra resources will be needed for social work education, for recruitment and retention of Social Workers, and for more specific workforce development support for Māori and Pasifika Social Workers.
A key point of discussion at the ANZASW Congress was how to strengthen and develop the social work profession’s ability to influence and inform more positive and balanced responses to social issues. A consensus view was expressed that the diverse work of Social Workers is not well understood in the wider public arena and that more effort is required to demonstrate positive examples of social work in action, including the ways in which Social Workers work in many different sectors and in collaboration with other professions.
Another specific issue raised during the Congress was a question about the failure of the New Zealand Government to indicate whether it may yet become a signatory to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, as the Australian Government recently decided to, or not.
During the Congress ANZASW members learnt from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade that the New Zealand Government has finalised a new report on New Zealand’s human rights record to the United Nations, which ANZASW had sought to be consulted on.
The Congress noted two changes in the “key human rights priorities” section of the final report. A new priority now reads that the New Zealand Government intends to improve its consultation process with civil society for future human rights reporting and follow-up. The existing priority for continuing to support Māori to realise their potential, was changed by adding the words: “Strengthening the partnership between the Government and Māori”.
ANZASW members attending the congress represented roopu, branches and interest groups from all regions of the country. ANZASW has a current membership of approximately 4000 members. ANZASW has been the professional association for Social Workers in Aotearoa New Zealand since 1964. All actions of ANZASW and its members are founded on principles of social justice and human rights in accordance with Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Honouring Cyndy Kiro
Kia ora all, I wanted to dedicate a piece to the work of Dr Cyndy Kiro who has recently stepped down after five years from her role as New Zealand's Child Commissioner. Cyndy was the first Maori and the first woman (and the youngest person) to assume this position (to date). In her role, she was a strong advocate for the rights of children and was quoted as being "outspoken about child abuse, her anti-smacking stance and bullying". She was honest in making public issues of child abuse. As well, Cyndy shared messages of prevention and intervention (at the family, community and political levels) - this gives a message of support from all levels, as well as it is directed to the individual that you can seek help and that's okay. I am sure, that her hard work and legacy for anti-child abuse will continue to resonate throughout society as a result of her efforts. It is awesome to have an ally and advocate at the top echelons also speaking out and sharing intervention ideas. Good mahi Cyndy, kia kaha, Taima
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
new Native social work blog
Kia ora, Kwe kwe, Aanii, Boozhoo, Hello
I am pleased to support the new Native Human Services Social Work blog site which can be found at http://nativesocialwork.blogspot.com
I look forward to the postings about Native social work. The Native Human Services social work bachelors programme is based at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.
Taima
I am pleased to support the new Native Human Services Social Work blog site which can be found at http://nativesocialwork.blogspot.com
I look forward to the postings about Native social work. The Native Human Services social work bachelors programme is based at Laurentian University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada.
Taima
Monday, April 6, 2009
Australia supports UN Indigenous Rights Declaration
Kia ora, this is great news that should be spread widely as well as celebrated. Taima
United we stand - Support for United Nations Indigenous Rights Declaration a watershed moment for Australia - Friday, 3 April 2009
This morning’s formal support from the Australian Government for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is likely to go down in history as a watershed moment in Australia’s relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma said today. Commissioner Calma said the statement being made in Canberra this morning by the federal government in support of the Declaration substantially adds to the foundations for a new partnership between the federal government, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.
"I congratulate the Australian Government for the giant step it is taking today in embracing the fundamental guiding principles of mutual respect and partnership outlined in the Declaration," Commissioner Calma said.
"In making this formal statement of support, the federal government is committing to a framework which fully respects Indigenous peoples’ rights and creates the opportunity for all Australians to be truly equal.
"The challenge for government now, is to build understanding of the Declaration among government officials, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the general community, so we can give meaning and content to its provisions."
Commissioner Calma said the strength of the Declaration was that it provided a set of internationally endorsed objective standards to guide the relationship with Indigenous peoples, and to promote actions that respected and protected Indigenous cultures.
"It should be clear that on any measure, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain marginalised in Australia and face entrenched poverty and ongoing discrimination on a daily basis.
"The statement of support for the Declaration fills me with hope for Indigenous peoples the world over," he said
"The Declaration could be put to immediate use in Australia by providing guidance and articulating minimum standards to help the government in addressing some of the discriminatory elements remaining in the Northern Territory intervention," Mr Calma said.
While emphasising the significance of today’s formal statement of support for the Declaration, Commissioner Calma said it was also important to acknowledge that the statement of support followed other significant steps the government had taken towards resetting its relationship with Indigenous Australians including: making the National Apology; providing substantial funding boosts to close the life expectancy gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and committing to the establishment of a new national representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"While substantial challenges remain for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, support for the Declaration can unleash Australia’s potential to be a world leader on how it engages with its Indigenous peoples," he said.
"Australia’s support for the Declaration will help in the global fight against racism and discrimination and firmly re-establishes Australia’s leadership role in the international human rights system."
For further information about the Commission's Electronic Mailing List Service visit: http://www.humanrights.gov.au/about/mailing_lists/
United we stand - Support for United Nations Indigenous Rights Declaration a watershed moment for Australia - Friday, 3 April 2009
This morning’s formal support from the Australian Government for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples is likely to go down in history as a watershed moment in Australia’s relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Justice Commissioner Tom Calma said today. Commissioner Calma said the statement being made in Canberra this morning by the federal government in support of the Declaration substantially adds to the foundations for a new partnership between the federal government, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community.
"I congratulate the Australian Government for the giant step it is taking today in embracing the fundamental guiding principles of mutual respect and partnership outlined in the Declaration," Commissioner Calma said.
"In making this formal statement of support, the federal government is committing to a framework which fully respects Indigenous peoples’ rights and creates the opportunity for all Australians to be truly equal.
"The challenge for government now, is to build understanding of the Declaration among government officials, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the general community, so we can give meaning and content to its provisions."
Commissioner Calma said the strength of the Declaration was that it provided a set of internationally endorsed objective standards to guide the relationship with Indigenous peoples, and to promote actions that respected and protected Indigenous cultures.
"It should be clear that on any measure, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples remain marginalised in Australia and face entrenched poverty and ongoing discrimination on a daily basis.
"The statement of support for the Declaration fills me with hope for Indigenous peoples the world over," he said
"The Declaration could be put to immediate use in Australia by providing guidance and articulating minimum standards to help the government in addressing some of the discriminatory elements remaining in the Northern Territory intervention," Mr Calma said.
While emphasising the significance of today’s formal statement of support for the Declaration, Commissioner Calma said it was also important to acknowledge that the statement of support followed other significant steps the government had taken towards resetting its relationship with Indigenous Australians including: making the National Apology; providing substantial funding boosts to close the life expectancy gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples; and committing to the establishment of a new national representative body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
"While substantial challenges remain for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in Australia, support for the Declaration can unleash Australia’s potential to be a world leader on how it engages with its Indigenous peoples," he said.
"Australia’s support for the Declaration will help in the global fight against racism and discrimination and firmly re-establishes Australia’s leadership role in the international human rights system."
For further information about the Commission's Electronic Mailing List Service visit: http://www.humanrights.gov.au/about/mailing_lists/
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Post: East Bay group outraged by family violence stats
Kia ora, below is an article that talks to the serious issue of domestic violence. The statistics are as they say alarming and credit is due to those groups such as Te Roopu Whiriwhiri who bring these statistics to the awareness of the community and public. Importantly they are calling for family members to seek help quickly. This article endorses agencies working collaboratively together to combat violence. Moving families from violent situations to living change is difficult yet fruitful work. Kia kaha, Taima
EAST BAY GROUP OUTRAGED BY FAMILY VIOLENCE STATS
Wednesday, 01 April 2009 - Whakatane Beacon, New Zealand.
NEW Zealand looks set to beat its own shameful record of domestic violence deaths this year, according to a Whakatane woman charged with combating the alarming statistics.
Raewyn Butler, co-ordinator of Te Roopu Whiriwhiri, a multi-agency collaborative which seeks to address family violence, said seven New Zealanders had already been killed in the first 11 weeks of 2009 as a result of domestic incidents. The toll comprises three women, two children and two men following the death of Wellington woman two weeks ago. In all but one of the deaths, an arrest has been made. Ms Butler, describing the total so far this year as an outrage, said the figures showed that New Zealand had a high rate of domestic violence deaths.
“Each year, on average, 14 women, 10 children and six men die.
“New Zealanders need to wake up to our appalling statistics and think what they can do to prevent these horrendous killings.
“We all need to be alert to warning signs that someone is experiencing violence and could be at serious risk.”
Ms Butler said social services could not be in people’s homes, and it was the family and friends of victims who were most likely to detect warning signs.
“There are some danger warning signs that we can all watch for - threats, especially after separation; that a person is fearful; jealous and obsessive behaviour; signs of mistreatment of children; a history of violence; and stalking behaviour.”
The deaths this year are:
• January 16: A Nelson man killed, his brother arrested.
• January 24: Mark McCutcheon dies after intervening in a domestic incident in Hawke’s Bay.
• January 26: Moana Aranui killed by her former partner in Dunedin.
• February 16: Joanne Thompson killed by her partner in South Canterbury.
• February 17: Cherish Tahuri-Wright killed in Marton, grandmother arrested.
• March 7: Five-week-old baby Jayrhis killed in Taupo, man arrested.
• March 14: Woman killed in Johnsonville in a domestic violence incident.
“In most of these deaths, someone - mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, neighbours, friends, police or agencies - would have known that these victims were at risk. We need to choose to help.
“Domestic violence deaths are preventable, but we all need to take responsibility for the welfare of our communities.
“If people think someone is at risk, they should seek help.”
The Whakatane collaborative includes Family Works, Relationship Services, Te Tohu O Te Ora o Ngati Awa, Victim Support and the police.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)