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November 21, 2016
Police pressure fails to stop peace protest
Waatea Team
Posted On November 21, 2016
Peace activists say their actions in standing up against military celebrations in Tamaki Makaurau have given heart to peace movements around the world.
Sina Brown-Davis from the Pacific Panthers says last week’s blockade of a weapon’s trade expo at the Viaduct conference centre succeeded because of its discipline, despite provocation by police and private security.
The following day there was a Karanga Tangaroa ceremony at Mission Bay to reclaim the name which had been commandeered by the navy for its Mahi Tangaroa exercises to mark its 75th anniversary.
She says the event was over-policed.
"There was a police helicopter, up to 14 police armed with long batons, and a paddy wagon. This is at a family event. This is at an event advertised as celebrating culture and traditional prayer. But I am proud of our people there, because they held the space for the women under much intimidation and stress and we all held ourselves in a dignified and peaceful way," Ms Davis says.
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