5000+ NZers back Helen Kelly's reinstatement to NZer of Year

Monday, 31 October 2016, 1:51 am
Article: The Scoop Team

Helen Kelly is bid fare well at the Michael Fowler Centre with a rendition of "Bread and Roses."

Content credits: Quotes from members of the public included in this report were posted by members of the public on the Action Station petition for Helen Kelly's reinstatement. Photos of Helen Kelly from memorial event (various sources). Cartoon of Helen Kelly by Foxy Lusty Grover

This is the time to honour her sacrifice. She died fighting for human rights and social justice." - Annabel F
 

For 44 weeks of 2016 #HelenKelly was strong, courageous, selfless, empathetic, caring, honest, and brave. She never stopped helping others and yet she had every reason to be selfish. If this isn't the complete objective of NZer of the Year, what the heck is?" - Karen W

The weekend has seen a massive outpouring of public support for Helen Kelly to be reinstated in the New Zealander of the Year awards.

By Sunday night more than 5000 signatures has been received on twin petitions, one addressed to the organisers of the awards, and a second to the principal sponsor, Kiwibank.

On Friday 28th October, Helen Kelly's controversial removal from the final judging process was made public by Glyn Taylor, the awards manager.

The revelation came on the day of Kelly's public memorial at Wellington's Michael Fowler Centre which was attended by around 1000 people and watched by tens of thousands via live streaming n NZ and around the world.

Kelly's removal was not mentioned in a media announcement from the awards organisers on the same day which confirmed that Kelly was the most nominated New Zealander of the Year, receiving close to a third, 102 ,of the 316 total received by the deadline of 30th September.

Kelly gave her final media interview a week later to Public Address's Russell Brown and died a week later on the 14th of October.

The reason given for the removal by Mr Taylor was rule 4. in the awards which reads. "4. Awards cannot be granted posthumously." On Saturday he was interviewed by Radio New Zealand and Stuff.co.nz and said that Kelly's contribution would be recognised at the awards gala which will be held in March 2017.

"This has caused us to look at things a little differently. I don't think we can reinstate. We're mid-programme so I think it's wrong to do that," Mr Taylor told Stuff.

Join the call to celebrate Helen Kelly as the #BestOfUs

A shining light in an unfair world." - Chris T

.

Right up until the end she pushed for us all to be kind to each other, I would say that based on her life of work, the kindest think you can do would be to honor all the effort people went into voting for her, keep her in the ballot. <3" - Samareh B

An extraordinary woman - extraordinary circumstances require an extraordinary response - a rule change to accommodate these circumstances can only add to the credibility of your brand - you are celebrating people who have taken extraordinary actions - be part of that and take extraordinary actions yourself. This is a chance for you to go high here." - Alex W

I was one of Helen's 108 nominators. It wasn't an easy or quick process (spent lots of time seeking out external referees and their contact details) and it is utterly awful what they've done in removing her. Shame!" - Tim G

The petition to Kiwibank was was started by this website's ex-founder Alastair Thompson on Saturday morning on the Action Station website. The petition to the organisers was created by Wellington student Jake Benge on the Greenpeace website Toko.

Both petitions address the unusual circumstances of Kelly's nomination and suggest either a special exception be made or the awards be changed or clarified to allow Kelly to go forward. Special circumstances include:

• Kelly's untimely death;


• timing of her death two weeks after the closure of nominations;


• her receiving far more nominations than any other contender;


• the fact that she exemplifies all the values of the awards; and


• Her continued self-less work for others in the final weeks of her life which is part of what she is being nominated for.

On Saturday in an NZ Herald's report on the controversy the news website conducted an online poll asking "Should Helen Kelly be eligible for New Zealander of the Year". So far 2531 readers have participated with a two thirds majority saying she should be eligible.

In the Action Station petition the reasons for making a special effort to include Helen Kelly were expressed in the form of an open letter to the organisers which reads:

"Helen is a hero and inspirational role model to tens of thousands of New Zealanders - many of whom nominated her for the award while she was alive (till Oct 14th) and still fighting to stay that way.

Voting closed for nominations for the award on September the 30th. At that time she had received the most public nominations.

That Helen had such widespread support for this recognition is far from surprising. In the final months of her life Helen connected with thousands more NZers as she continued to do what she had always done - fight for justice and fairness for the benefit her fellow Kiwis.

Her death itself, up to her last breath, was the most dignified you could possibly imagine.

A week before her death she was still tweeting in defence of the rights of others. As she approached death she gave up precious time to media interviews to highlight the suffering of her fellow Kiwis, mounting the final campaign of her life in support of making access to medicinal cannabis for terminally ill New Zealanders easier.

Public polls showed Helen's final campaign was supported by an overwhelming majority of the public.

Helen accomplished an enormous amount in her 52 years of life, before her time with us all was cut short by an aggressive lung cancer.

We agree with the chorus of eulogies following death which have said that she would have doubtless accomplished a great deal more if she had survived. But for us she was a hero for what she had already done, for her Trade Union work and support of workers rights - whether unionised or not, New Zealander or not - for her integrity and for her kindness.

For all these reasons, if ever there were a case when the New Zealander who has died should remain eligible for this award it is this one."

Join the call to celebrate Helen Kelly as the #BestOfUs

Helen was not only an inspirational leader and change agent, she was also a personal friend of mine (and many, many others). Her work impacted on every working New Zealander and many more people beyond our shores. The sign of her greatness was that, despite her high profile, she remained unassuming and approachable. Her achievements will resonate for decades to come." - Jo B

There are few New Zealanders who represent the human condition as well as Helen Kelly did and none moreso than in the short time left her after her terminal diagnosis. Interestingly those who might come close are also IMHO, women. Dignified, courageous, principled almost beyond comprehension, it will be a tragedy not just to her memory, but to every surviving New Zealander, should her qualities not be recognised for their true worth to all." - Shelley Te Waiariki H

Helen Kelly is worthy of having this silly rule overturned. She spent her life trying to make others' lives better. Not many can say that!" - Lesley P

.

If some one is nominated for an award and then, unfortunately, dies, the award should still be given posthumously." - Pauline M

*******

The full text of the Action Station Petition:

To: Kiwibank
Reinstate Helen Kelly's nomination to the NZer of Year Awards, mate.

1. To pass on the following message to the NZer of the Year Award organisers asking them to consider it seriously.

2. To notify the NZer of the Year Award organisers that you will respond positively to any request for a rule change to make this possible.

Why is this important?

Dear NZer of The Year Awards,

We the undersigned New Zealanders imagine the decision to remove Helen Kelly was not lightly made.

Nevertheless we think your decision should be reconsidered. And if a rule change is needed to achieve this we ask you to make that rule change.

Helen is a hero and inspirational role model to tens of thousands of New Zealanders - many of whom nominated her for the award while she was alive (till Oct 14th) and still fighting to stay that way.

Voting closed for nominations for the award on September the 30th. At that time she had received the most public nominations.

That Helen had such widespread support for this recognition is far from surprising. In the final months of her life Helen connected with thousands more NZers as she continued to do what she had always done - fight for justice and fairness for the benefit her fellow Kiwis.

Her death itself, up to her last breath, was the most dignified you could possibly imagine.

A week before her death she was still tweeting in defence of the rights of others. As she approached death she gave up precious time to media interviews to highlight the suffering of her fellow Kiwis, mounting the final campaign of her life in support of making access to medicinal cannabis for terminally ill New Zealanders easier.

Public polls showed Helen's final campaign was supported by an overwhelming majority of the public.

Helen accomplished an enormous amount in her 52 years of life, before her time with us all was cut short by an aggressive lung cancer.

We agree with the chorus of eulogies following death which have said that she would have doubtless accomplished a great deal more if she had survived. But for us she was a hero for what she had already done, for her Trade Union work and support of workers rights - whether unionised or not, New Zealander or not - for her integrity and for her kindness.

For all these reasons, if ever there were a case when the New Zealander who has died should remain eligible for this award it is this one.

Respectfully

Your mates.

More messages from the public.

Helen Kelly IS New Zealander of the Year. Her length of service, 52 years and inspiration everlasting. There is no criteria which justifies her elimination. Anyone awarded other than Helen will rightly reject the award!" - Steph M

.

Rules are made by humans. Sometimes humans make rules that do not work and they need to be broken. There is a saying my father used to tell me: 'Rules are made to be broken.'" - Megan H

.

It all applies: "[the award] honours people for their contribution to the well-being of NZ. Proven, inspirational and passionate, these are the people that NZ 'ers are proud to call their own. Their achievements have positive effects on how we feel about our nation and ourselves. Recognises an individual, who, through his or her achievements, has made an outstanding contribution to the wellbeing of the nation. Honours those who use their passion to make our country a better place"." - Marja L

.

Helen Kelly is among the most inspiring New Zealanders I can think of. Selfless, always working for others - I cannot think of anyone more deserving of the title New Zealander of the Year." - Lorraine G

.

The New Zealander of the Year Awards celebrate those people who use their passion for New Zealand to make our country a better place.-didn't Helen Kelly do this for most of her tragically 'cut short' life. These rules need to be changed-had she lived, Helen would still be fighting to make NZ a better place for others." - Gabrielle M

.

Helen is my hero-so intelligent in the face of the wrong thinking that is threatening this beloved country and our word." - julie w

.

A truly special New Zealander and human being. Let's make this happen to ensure her legacy is never, ever forgotten." - sharon l

.

NZers pride themselves on being part of an egalitarian society. No one encapsulates those values more than Helen Kelly. She should be nominated for NZer of the year as she fought for the needs of the many, especially those less able." - Melanie W

.

It makes total sense. Rules are not rules just for their own sake. Rules, like international law, have to be adapted to take cognisance of changed circumstances. Helen Kelly was exceptional. Make an exception for her." - Kate O

She fought so hard to stick around and make a difference for others. Please find a way to honour her strength and the work she did for our country and its people." - Jolisa G

.

Hi Priestess of Selflessness. Would have loved to have seen her become PM. R.I.P. sorely missed." - Grahame S

.

Helen deserved to be nominated and was a truly inspiration person. She was alive in the year of nomination and therefore I believe her nomination should stand." - Jennifer S

.

Helen was one of the best of us, and I think we should recognise that as a nation." - Dave L

.

Because Helen has helped and given so many people so much hope to hold on to. She is an amazing lady" - Isabell melissa M

.

"Helen Kelly spent her life fighting for equality for kiwis and the memory of her bravery and her relentless fight for justice should be honored." - Jonty B

.

Helen did so much for so many and in her final days she was the polar opposite to a narcissist. Recognition of what she did and achieved while she was alive should not be discounted even if she has passed (so recently). )" - Donna D

.

Gosh I'm flabbergasted that her name was removed when she's only just passed. Of course she should still be considered because even in death she's an amazing and influential woman!" - Amanda W

.

She deserves to be recognised for her work." - Pamela C

.

Helen deserves this award for all the work she has done for people." - Peter & Jane E

.

Even if the rules state you must be alive to be eligible, she WAS alive for most of the year in question. And was STILL working to help other Kiwis." - CD W

.

Helen Kelly represents for me the very highest ideals that Aotearoa can live up to." - Jack D

.

She deserves to be named top New Zealander because she actually cared about New Zealanders" - Adrienne H

.

Helen epitomised the very values that underpin this award. She lived and breathed these values including even during her last courageous battle with cancer when she still thought about and battled for others" - Leeann P.

.

Helen had the highest vote count, but passed before the completion of the awards. She worked for and was the voice for so many New Zealanders. Lets honour her with this award." - Wayne H

.

She deserves to be honoured. Her life was humanitarian at a time when we need humanity back in our lives." - Belinda D

.

"NZer of the year have stated they cannot award posthumously, but give no reason. To award this to Helen's family would send a wonderful message to Aotearoa New Zealand that such amazing goodness does not stop at death." - Graham B

.

Helen will always be a hero among unionists in New Zealand. She has sacrificed so much so that the voices of the many humble workers can be heard and recognised as an important part of any organisation. Thank you Helen and may God greet you as a friend and keep you forever. You will be missed." - Cole P

.

Helen Kelly epitomised humanity to all of us, particularly the disadvantaged and workers." - Antoine X

.

A New Zealander of the Year should be someone whose life and efforts have touched, enabled and inspired others. Who better?" - Paul E

.

"I believe if a person dies within the year of nomination it should be allowed to go through" - Sylvia J

.

A brave, influential and compassionate woman. A role model for unionists and all kiwis." - Chris C

.

Helen Kelly should win. She was alive when nominated." - Jo B

.

because it is the right thing to do" - wendy d

.

Helen deserves this !" - Shirley M

.

Helen was a fearless and tireless warrior for the rights of Aotearoa's working people, their whanau and communities. Please reconsider your decision." - Heather H

.

Great New Zealander who always tried to improve the working conditions for the workers" - John F

.

Just because she died, it doesn't change the fact she was an amazing kiwi lady! She deserves to win!" - Elman A

.

Other awards can be given posthumously, why not this.. An inspirational woman who in her life,and death,gave her all.." - Denise C

.

She was an amazing, strong woman who cared for ALL kiwis and their wellbeing." - Shirley D

.

her hard work and corage \\\ her hard work and courage as a union organizer. fighting injustice every step of her journey. her fight for medicinal cannabis. greatly missed, NEW ZEALANDER OF THE YEAR" - jack l

.

When someone dies, that does not simply cancel their achievements!" - Carolyn B

.

Such an inspirational woman. So dedicated to improving the working lives of others - NZ & overseas" - Elizabeth G

She embodies the NZer of the year no one deserves it more and she would have had it had cancer not taken her too soon" - Sue H

.

Because she stood up for those who were being disempowered and exploited." - Steve K

.

Helen Kelly's tireless efforts and passion is an inspiration beyond measure!" - Karin O

.

Helen was the most deserving nominee, her death has not changed that." - Stephen H

.

Posthumous award would be appropriate recognition." - sandra G

.

No one else does what she did." - kirsten m

.

Helen Kelly exemplified rationalism, courage and grace?" - John C

.

I signed because she was still with us after the submissions closed so she was still eligible.." - leeray o

.

Because she is an exceptional lady who made a difference to others" - Chris D

.

Amazing NZer and role model for future generations. Her work and life speaks for itself." - Helen B

.

Helen was an inspirational role model for many New Zealanders." - Mary G

.

A tireless worker, good on her," - L D

.

Rules are made by humans. Sometimes humans make rules that do not work and they need to be broken. There is a saying my father used to tell me: 'Rules are made to be broken.'" - Megan H

.

I think Helen Kelly was an inspirational, intelligent and brave woman. It would be great to see her honoured with this award." - Kate W

.

Helen deserves this award" - marilyn c

.

Helen was a Great Lady doing Great Work for others !" - Karl B

.

Helen Kelly has done amazing work to try & help every worker in New Zealand to have a better Life. She is/was selfless" - Jacinta K

.

Because we are going to regard her as NZer of the year, anyway" - Rae S

.

Helen is a real NZer with passion for NZ." - Godfrey T.

.

She's a champion!" - William H

.

Her early and tragic death should not prevent her being recognised for the great work she did." - Dave C

.

Its obvious the right thing to do" - Maj D

.

Her early and tragic death does not negate the great work she did and should not prevent her being recognised." - JULIE C

.

all the more reason that she should be recognised----thus my reason" - george b

.

Learnt heaps whilst a union delegate for go bus company A caring LEGEND" - poto t

.

An inspirational, kind woman who stood up for a fair deal for others." - Cathy H

.

This lady has been an inspiration to many and has shown more strength and determination since her diagnosis and subsequent passing. Just because she has passed over doesn't mean that she shouldn't still be eligible for NZer of the year ... I'm sure her family would be honored to accept it on her behalf." - Karen S

.

She could quite easily and respectfully receive the award posthumosly" - Colleen S

.

A brave, courageous, selfless champion of and for the people. Let her work live on." - Matthew S

.

Giving her the award will help her work to live on" - Meredith C

.

Because she's a hero, a champion and a leader who deserves to be honoured, dead or alive." - James L

.

I went to her memorial service yesterday and was amazed at the positive impact she has had on so many people" - Elspeth

.

Being dead doesn't negate the achievements of the Helen Kelly. To cynically remove her from the nominee list insults all those she helped and all she acheived." - Jacob S

.

She should still get the award to be remembered and honored. Obviously.." - Benjamin N

.

I voted for Helen earlier in the year, and I stand by what I said then. She was a beacon for compassion, sincerity, and the truest values." - Kath O

.

An exceptional person, who fought an extremely hard battle for the rights of values of all workers." - Denise O

.

Death does not mitigate what she acheived." - Fiona M

.

I have so much admiration for this gutsy lady.." - Pat B

.

She was an amazing woman. One of inspiration and dedication to her work" - Evelyn L

.

Just a disgrace. We must stand up for what is right." - Juan C

.

Her drive and her passion and her empathy." - Kylie M

.

If she had lived long enough to have been nominated I believe she would have been seriously in a position to win!" - Denise N

.

"Because Helen Kelly was the "relentless changemaker" who campaigned tirelessly for the rights of ALL New Zealanders!!" - martin r

.

This is the right thing to do." - Nicki G

.

I admired her very much" - shirley f

.

"She was an utterly selfless defender of the powerless." - Tim H

.

A campaigner for good tilt the end!" - T S

.

Helen Kelly was a remarkable and inspiring woman - if the rules exclude her then surely that can easily be fixed." - Doreen S

.

She IS my New Zealander of the year no matter if this petition works or not" - Scott H

*** ENDS ***

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