Media Statement
For Immediate Use

11 November 2016
Rally for Political Change After US Election

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MOURNING TIME OVER, LET'S ORGANISE: Community Rally For Political Change

Communities in Te Whanganui-a-Tara / Wellington will gather this Sunday the 13th of November at Frank Kitts Park to rally in solidarity with marginalised people affected by the US Elections, and calling for deeper political change both overseas and in Aotearoa.

Organisers say that both the British Referendum to remain or leave in the European Union, and the recent election of Donald Trump and the Republican Party in the US are evidence that current political systems are not serving ordinary people.

Of particular concern, is the negative impact expected for marginalised groups, including indigenous communities, LGBTIQ, Muslims, migrants, and people of colour.

“The echoes of hate from Donald Trump’s platform are reverberating across the world. We are seeing racism, sexism, xenophobia, Islamophobia and homo/bi/transphobia reveal themselves on a mass scale in a continent that is a large global power.” Organiser Kassie Hartendorp, states: “We must stand in solidarity with those affected abroad, and continue to fight for a just Aotearoa at the same time.”

Rawa Karetai, Organiser says that it makes sense that New Zealanders are worried about the US elections, and asks communities to reflect on what political values look like in Aotearoa.

“We have reason to be nervous or scared. Our message to our Government is that we need strong leadership to challenge the elite and look after the most marginalised people of our country. We must look deeper into political solutions that do not rely on fear and oppression. It’s time that we stand up for what is right and wrong.”

Organisers call on local communities, councils, Government, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the mission to the United Nations and politicians across the system to stand strong against misogyny, racism, xenophobia, homo/bi/trans phobia and breaches of human rights.

Join the rally:

Sunday November 13th, Frank Kitts Park, Wellington. Gather at 2pm

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