Pop Media & Pop Politicians Cynical And Obscene

The response from the pop media and certain pop politicians to Tariana Turia's analysis of historical perspectives on women’s and children’s abuse was “…cynical and obscene, but nothing out of the ordinary”, says Shaun Wakelin, spokesperson for the Institute of Political Education.

Mr Wakelin said “...the Ministers argument is valid and really opens the way for meaningful debate in this country….typically, she was cut short as soon as Colonisation (as one possible explanation for a way of seeing how abusive relationships have developed) and kaitiaki (spiritual guidance) were mentioned...", he said.

According to Mr Wakelin, the subsequent racism (ignorance) and punitive reactionism of politicians and the media spoke for itself.

He believes that it is time to develop a form of consciously political education for people to take up if they choose.

“In Aotearoa New Zealand, access to a broad range of information, discourses and knowledge(s) has been lacking and hence, conservative reactions from ignorant people…”, he said.

Educators who work with youth and children should become politically active and more openly critical of various institutions, “…access to some form of voluntary, political education for children and young people should be made available and publicly funded…the government and its other interests should stay out of it”, Mr Wakelin said.

shaun.wakelin@vuw.ac.nz

Shaun Wakelin, IPE, 04 4721000 ext. 7018. E-mail: interfuct@hotmail.com

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