Hannah Tamaki - Statement on Maori Women’s Welfare League

16 JUNE 2012

It is with regret that I learned yesterday of the National Executives decision that I be stood down and not be eligible to hold any office within the League till January 2015. It is particularly disappointing since I have already spent nearly a year waiting for an outcome.

I am surprised that three fully functioning branches within the League are being disestablished because a large number of their members also happen to be members of Destiny Church. These branches have worked hard and integrally for years within the kaupapa of the League and delivered on all that has been asked of them to advance the League’s vision.

I am particularly sad for the women who have given so much to the League who are now being penalised because of their religious affiliation. Particularly since the League has profound Christian origins and numerous church affiliations.

However, I respect the decision of the National Executive and do not intend to appeal or contest it. To do so would only place more stress on the League and myself.

Looking towards the future, I am passionate about the broader cause of advancing the rights and aspirations of women and children in New Zealand.

That aspiration will now obviously not be realized within the League, since 2015 in my view is too long to wait to make a meaningful contribution.

Where one door closes another opens. Maybe there is a similar organization that might be interested in utilizing my passion, skills and over 20 years of pioneering expertise?

Or perhaps it is time to create a new vehicle that embraces all women regardless of race, religion, church affiliation or sexual orientation for the purpose of advancing the rights and aspirations of women and children.

I sincerely thank all of those who have supported me throughout this inquiry.

There is nothing more I wish to say regarding the outcome of the MWWL inquiry.

ENDS

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