Human Rights Commission urges New Zealand women to get stroppy

Human Rights Commissioner for Women, Jackie Blue is urging women to get stroppy to affect change this election year.

Dr Blue said as well as paid parental leave New Zealand women are facing many other important issues.

“Violence against women and children is an appalling, pervasive abuse of human rights that we must challenge at every opportunity,” said Dr Blue.

“It’s disturbing that some New Zealanders continue to believe violence is OK. They are wrong: It’s not OK.”

Herself a survivor of domestic violence Dr Blue says “we need strategies and age appropriate sexuality education in our schools that teach our young people about healthy, respectful relationships and to ensure they understand what consent means: these are basic human rights.”

Dr Blue urges politicians to clearly articulate how they will address women’s rights as human rights.

“Women with economic independence have better control over our lives and this comes through education and fair pay. We are 51% of the population, women need to make our vote count this year.”

Dr Blue was interviewed by Catriona McLennan as part of Sky Channel 83’s Womenpower programme. It will be broadcast Tuesday 8th April at 7.30pm and repeated on Thursday 10th April at 12.30pm.

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