Government House-Photo/ supplied
Introduction:
Today was a day of celebration as 50 Mōrehu and their whānau made their way to Government House in Wellington. The Governor-General of New Zealand, Cindy Kiro, extended an invitation to all Mōrehu who dedicated six years of their lives to the Royal Commission report. This momentous occasion marked a significant step in the journey towards redress for those who suffered abuse while in state care.
The presence of Mōrehu at Government House symbolized a powerful message of hope and resilience. It was a testament to their unwavering commitment to achieving a better future for themselves and future generations. Their journey, however, has been fraught with challenges, and the recent actions of the coalition government have ignited concerns.
Paula, Jenny & Te Arai – photo / supplied
Just days after the Mōrehu visit to parliament for tabling the Royal Commission report, the Act Party announced its intention to repeal Section 7AA of the Oranga Tamariki Act. This move, which aims to weaken child protection measures under Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and has been met with widespread condemnation from advocates and survivors. The repeal of Section 7AA would undermine the very principles of safety and well-being by damaging whakapapa. An issue that the Royal Commission report so meticulously outlined happening to Mōrehu over decades.
Adding to the concerns, the National Party has proposed the introduction of boot camps for young offenders. This proposal, despite overwhelming evidence from the Royal Commission that boot camps are ineffective and often harmful, raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking.
Paepae – Photo / supplied
The Royal Commission report, a culmination of years of research and testimony, provided a comprehensive roadmap for addressing the systemic failures that led to abuse in state care. The report emphasized the need for a holistic approach to redress, one that prioritizes the voices of survivors, invests in trauma-informed care, and focuses on prevention.
The coalition government has pledged to make an announcement in November regarding the implementation of redress for Mōrehu. This announcement holds immense significance for the future of survivors and their families. It is crucial that the government’s response aligns with the recommendations of the Royal Commission and prioritizes the needs and aspirations of Mōrehu.
Ngā mareikura- photo / supplied
Governor-General Cindy Kiro’s presence at Government House was a powerful symbol of acknowledgement and hope. Her invitation to the Mōrehu, former commissioners, and teams who dedicated years to the Royal Commission report, demonstrated a deep understanding of their plight and the lived experiences of those who suffered abuse while in state care.
Kiro, known for her advocacy for vulnerable communities, has consistently spoken out against the injustices faced by those who have been let down by the state. Her acknowledgement of the Mōrehu’s journey, their resilience, and their hopes for a brighter future resonated deeply with those present.
In her address, Kiro expressed her commitment to ensuring that the voices of the Mōrehu are heard and their needs addressed. She highlighted the importance of the Royal Commission report and its recommendations as a roadmap for creating a more just and equitable society.
Ngā mareikura photo / supplied
The Governor-General’s genuine empathy and understanding were evident in her interactions with the Mōrehu. She listened intently to their stories, acknowledging their pain and offering words of encouragement. Her presence at Government House served as a powerful reminder that their voices matter and that their struggle for justice is being heard at the highest levels of government.
One Mōrehu, Karl Tauri, suggested a way forward: the establishment of Mōrehu as an iwi to offer wrap-around support. This visionary proposal recognizes the shared experiences and needs of Mōrehu and the potential for collective strength and healing.
Karl Tauri with ngā mōrehu- photo / supplied
The Govenor General said to me that she read my article titled “How Colonisation Created the State Care to Prison Pipeline“. She mentioned that I am one of the most successful of all the Mōrehu. I explained to her that I’d be more successful if she turned right. And said “Cheese” for a photo, as I will be featuring her in my next article.
Govenor General Cindy Kiro- photo/supplied
In conclusion, the journey towards redress is far from over. The recent actions of the coalition government have cast a shadow over the progress made. It is imperative that the government demonstrates its commitment to upholding the principles of justice, accountability, and healing. The voices of Mōrehu must be heard, their experiences acknowledged, and their needs met. Only then can we truly begin to heal the wounds of the past and create a future where all children are safe and protected.
