Kiwis urged to give each other a fair go

Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy says no one would welcome negative discrimination if it happened to them. Instances of advertisements placed on New Zealand sites advising Asian or non-European flatmates or tenants to not apply have been discussed in the media recently.

“I doubt the person defending his ban on Asian flatmates would think it OK if he were turned away from a flat or a job just because he is a Pakeha man,” said Dame Susan.

"'Irish need not apply' 'No Maori' 'No Pacific Islanders': discrimination may not be new to our country but that doesn't make it OK."

Dame Susan says past discrimination isn't widely talked about in NZ which is why it's important we do so now and she thanked those New Zealanders who have spoken out. She also congratulated businesses for refusing to post discriminatory advertisements.

"We don't need a law to tell us it's wrong and ignorant to stereotype and discriminate against an entire race of people. Giving others a fair go is part of Kiwi culture but we need to live it not just talk about it."

ENDS

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