Te Kupenga supports efforts of anti-violence campaigner Richie Hardcore
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday 28 July 2014
Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga – National Network of Stopping Violence Services (Te Kupenga) wholeheartedly endorses
statements made by DJ, Kickboxer and Anti-Violence Campaigner Richie Hardcore this morning on TV3’s Firstline about the
role of men in addressing sexual violence.
“Acknowledging that sexual violence is ultimately a gendered issue is actually a really positive thing – not all men
perpetrate violence, but all men can be part of the solution.” says Te Kupenga spokesperson Jeremy Logan. “Ignoring the
gendered nature of violence, ignores the statistical reality of violence experienced every day by women and children in
Aotearoa, which is sadly,
overwhelmingly perpetrated by men.”
“Men speaking out about the epidemic levels of violence in our country is really important. It helps to challenge the
unhelpful and pervasive attitudes that still exist here, that place the blame on victims and survivors, rather than
those committing the violence themselves.” While the exact figures are hard to pinpoint, New Zealand based studies
suggest that up to one in three women and one in 10 men will suffer sexual abuse at some time in their lives.
The guiding principles of Te Kupenga and their member organisations are based firmly around the sanctity of women and
divinity of children. “Whilst, acknowledging the part men have to play in this is a necessary first step, an important
corollary to this is appropriate sanctioning, rehabilitation
and support for those who perpetrate violence” says Logan. “Appropriate means the services for survivors and
perpetrators are well funded and established on New Zealand based evidence.”
ENDS