22 January 2015

Open hearts and generosity shine through as Kiwis have their say on New Zealand’s refugee quota

The generosity and open hearts of New Zealanders have truly shone through over the past few months, said Amnesty International.

Since Amnesty International launched Our Voices - an online submission platform - in December, more than 200 people have already had their say on whether or not the Government should increase the country’s annual refugee quota.

“The voices have been overwhelmingly positive so far,” said Meg de Ronde, Campaigns Director at Amnesty International in New Zealand.

“What has stood out is the open hearts and generosity of people here for those in need. New Zealanders are amplifying their voices and saying loud and clear that they want the Government to step up.”

Amnesty International has received submissions from leading NGOs, former refugees, faith leaders and from individuals from Pahia to Dunedin and everywhere in between.

Here’s some samples of what people are saying:

“I believe New Zealand needs to stand alongside the rest of the global community and start opening its arms wide to majorly increase the quota of refugees coming to seek refuge and settle here...” - Adri van Lith, Takaka.

“There is a saying "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing". New Zealand is full of good people, we must do something, we must take more refugees.” - Mary Menzies, Nelson.

“As a teacher, I have taught refugee students in the New Zealand and the UK. I know how it transforms their futures that they have been offered the chance of a life worth living, which we take for granted for our own children. Please support raising the refugee quota - this is what it is to be human.” - Ragne Maxwell, Paekakariki.

“It’s inspiring to see that in the face of the worst global refugee crisis in 70 years, Kiwis have spent their summer holidays taking action for those children, women and men who are fleeing war and persecution and seeking safety,” said Meg de Ronde.

It’s not too late to use your voice - submissions will be open to the public via ourvoices.org.nz until 5.00pm on 5 February - people can submit written submissions, videos, photos and stories.

On 15 February 2016 Amnesty International will host a public hearing at Parliament in Wellington for submissions, giving people the opportunity to submit in person. The event is being sponsored by Hon Peter Dunne and will include a panel of experts who will hear submissions before compiling a report of recommendations for the Government.

Amnesty International has invited Cabinet members to be part of the panel and will announce the makeup of the panel at a later date.

“Amnesty International is excited to be able to provide this platform for our voices to be heard and passed on to decision makers,” said Meg de Ronde.

ENDS

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