42,000 people participated in a historic hikoi, or march, from the northern tip of New Zealand to Wellington to protest the rightwing government’s attempt to reshape the relationship between the Māori people and the state. Led by lawyer and activist Annette Sykes, the hikoi aimed to show unity among Māori people and concern over potential threats to their hard-won rights.
The coalition government believes that the treaty principles between Māori and the British crown, dating back to the 1840s, have been distorted. They argue that the focus on Māori rights is unfair and hinders societal equality. This has raised fears that progress in closing the socioeconomic gap between Māori and the wider population will be lost.
Sykes emphasizes that the protest demonstrated a strong desire among New Zealanders for unity and mutual respect. She criticizes the government’s divisive policies, which she believes undermine the nation’s sense of unity and respect for one another. The hikoi served as a powerful statement against these policies and a reminder of the importance of upholding Māori rights and values.
Overall, the hikoi was a unifying moment for Māori people and a show of solidarity against potential threats to their rights. It highlighted the ongoing importance of mutual respect and unity in New Zealand society.
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