11 May 2011

Locals Shocked By Racism And Intolerance In Northcote

Labour Party Candidate for Northcote, Paula Gillon, is appalled to hear that Anti-Asian fliers have been circulated and distributed in the Northcote Shopping Centre.

“I am absolutely disgusted and appalled that these blatantly racist fliers are being distributed in our local community. These fliers are nothing short of abhorrent and they preach hate and intolerance.” Paula has stated.

A small far-right group from Christchurch has been reported as distributing fliers describing an “Asian-invasion” to homes and in particular are targeting suburbs with significant sized Asian communities, including Northcote.

“I am deeply concerned that these fliers seek to intimidate Asian members of our community and promote racist hate speech. I acknowledge the distress that they may cause our community and call on any member of the community that witnesses intimidation to contact the police immediately.”

“This extremist racist group is not welcome in our community. Northcote is a multi-cultural, diverse and tolerant community” asserted Paula, who is a former North Shore City Councillor and Community Board Member.

“Northcote is home to a significant Asian community who are valuable and contributing members of New Zealand society. Such racism and intolerance is repugnant and has no place in Northcote. I grew up in Northcote, and like many other residents, feel that the diversity of the families who have made Northcote their home adds and contributes to the rich cultural tapestry of our community and should be celebrated.”

Letter to North Shore Times

I am appalled to hear that Anti-Asian fliers have been circulated and distributed in our local Northcote Shopping Centre by the extremist far-right group, National Front. I am outright disgusted and appalled that these blatantly racist fliers are being distributed in our local community. These fliers are nothing short of abhorrent and they preach hate and intolerance. I am deeply concerned that these fliers seek to intimidate Asian members of our community and promote racist hate speech. I acknowledge the distress that they may cause our community and call on any member of the community that witnesses intimidation to contact the police immediately. Northcote is a diverse and tolerant community and home to to a significant Asian community who are valuable and contributing members of New Zealand society. Such racism and intolerance is repugnant. The many cultures that have made Northcote their home form part of the rich cultural tapestry that makes up today’s New Zealand.

Paula Gillon
Labour candidate for Northcote

ends

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