27 May 2018

The Islamic Women’s Council of New Zealand notes with concern the findings of the Ministerial Review of the Human Rights Commission conducted by Judge Coral Shaw. We hope that the issues raised in the report will be addressed in a timely manner by those responsible.

We also note with regret the current Race Relations Commissioner, Dame Susan Devoy, will not be seeking another term. “We found Susan to be a strong advocate for race relations”, said Chairperson Dr Maysoon Salama. “She has been willing to listen and to take action in areas that concern the well-being of various communities throughout the country. We appreciated the initiatives she has taken during her time in office, including the “Give Nothing to Racism” campaign and the discussions around hate speech online.

“Her courage in speaking out publicly in the face of hostile public criticism is especially valued. We hope that her legacy and her work will be honoured when she leaves the role at the end of June”

This press release is supported by the following organisations:

Waikato Interfaith Council/Te Tiaho Uenuku

New Zealand Muslim Association

Religious Diversity Centre

Tauranga Moana Interfaith Council

Dunedin Abrahamic Interfaith Group

Dunedin Interfaith Council

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