Click to enlarge
Henderson South Primary School pupil Kalele Faimalie-Malutafa, 10, puts the finishing touches to his spiky looking creation.

March 24, 2009

Media Release

Creative approach to cultural acceptance

Small hands made light work of a fun programme promoting positive race relations in Waitakere City.

Three classes of Henderson South Primary School students were among those encouraged to focus on what people have in common rather than highlighting their ethnic differences.

One way they did this was by making clay figurines to reinforce the message that irrespective of ethnic background, people have the same needs of food, water, shelter and family.

From rotund Buddha-like figures to cool looking dudes with funky hairdos, the children took to the task with gusto and creativity.

Earth People was developed by Wellington City Library two years ago and this year Waitakere City Council libraries in association with the Human Rights Commission, decided to support it by introducing it to local schools.

As well as making figurines, the libraries’ multicultural services advisor visited the schools and spoke to children about how accent and appearance can alter our perceptions of each other.

Participating Waitakere schools were: New Lynn, Ranui, Henderson South and Tirimoana primary schools.

ENDS

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