Kohanga negativity

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 663, 19 November 1996, Page 4

Kohanga negativity

• I would like to express my feelings on a few items as a disgusted and concerned grandparent of two children who attend Te Aroha Kohanga Reo. We, as parents and elders, are supposed to set examples for our children and all other children in our community, by encouraging them to learn and grow with positive teachings. I am disgusted at all the negative attitudes that have "come about ever since Te Aroha Kohanga Reo's building was placed on its section in Karamu Place. Certain persons had the opportunity to oppose this building through the right channels. That wasn't good enough; they also went and tried to have an injunction put on it over the fencing, which I don't understand as no monies have been asked for toward expenses. Then certain persons went around Karamu Place to try and start a petition, to no avail. On top of all this, my nephew was approached by one particular woman and told 'this is pakeha land not Maori land' so would he mind removing himself. This child took this to heart. For this woman' s information we have more Irish, Scottish and y/elsh blood than Maori, but are very proud to have the Maori culture also. I feel really sorry for this woman, as she obviously has racial and prejudice problems and worst of all to air them with our young ones instead of his parents. Our babies are innocent, so please stop this segregation. For anyone who is interested, our kohanga reos are for teaching the Maori culture to any colour or creed who wish to learn and all are most welcome.

Shirley .

Phillips