August 12, 2014
No place in politics for racist jokes
Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy says the value New Zealand places on freedom of expression shouldn't include politicians pandering to racism.
The former world squash champion has already blown the whistle this election campaign on Act's Jamie Whyte for his comments on what he called 'Maori privilege', and on New Zealand First leader Winston Peters for his 'two Wongs' joke attempt.
She says politicians should take the lead in changing attitudes and behaviours.
"Put yourself in the shoes of a Chinese New Zealander, particularly a young person who sees leaders denigrating their race on a consistent basis. It's not funny, and social media and commentary might find that half the people do but half the people don't either. I think we have no place for name calling or racist jokes or anything offensive. Denigrating people because of their race, their ethnicity or their religious beliefs is just not on," she says.
Dame Susan says being the Race Relations Commissioner has opened her eyes to the extent of everyday racism and stereotyping, which has negative effects on groups such as Maori.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH DAME SUSAN DEVOY CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast?podlink=MjEwMTU=
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