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Our Truth, Tā Mātou Pono discusses the history of racism in Aotearoa, beginning with Things and your newspapers. From perpetuated stereotypes to presenting the world through a monocultural lens, our coverage of Maori has typically been biased and unfair.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has reacted to the apology for Things to the Maori, saying “good” to the news organization for their decision.
Speaking on Monday, Ardern said it was an editorial decision made by Thingsbut praised the apologies, published in newspapers across the country.
“I think it’s healthy that, whether it’s for the Government, or for the Fourth Estate, to constantly look at our role and place … in some of the debates on social cohesion and some of the debates on reparation, it is obviously their decision, but okay with them. “
ROBERT KITCHEN / Things
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has commented on Stuff’s apology to the Maori and said “good” to the news organization. (archive)
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The Prime Minister’s comments come later Things he apologized to the Maori, saying that he has been racist and contributed to stigma, marginalization and stereotypes against Maori.
He has announced changes, including a commitment to better represent Maori, “and all the people of Aotearoa,” with the support of the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi.
Launch of the project, Our truthStuff’s editorial director, Mark Stevens, said the company’s coverage of Maori issues for the past 160 years ranged from racist to blind. “It was rarely fair or balanced in terms of representing Maori.”
A team of reporters has investigated how Things and their newspapers have portrayed Maori over the years.
Stevens said Things examined at the national and local levels how it treated Maori. “We look at child abuse, Parihaka, at Moutoa Gardens, police raids at Te Urewera, the Forest and Seabed Act, and more.”
He was asked if other news organizations should consider following the lead of Things, Ardern said the changes might not be just apologies. The media could also consider who they hire to ensure staff reflects New Zealand’s makeup.
“Look, I actually think one of the things we can do is make sure that even now we have diversity of voices in our media, regardless of whether or not there is that historical reflection.”
RICKY WILSON / Stuff
Mark Stevens, Stuff’s managing editor.
There were things that could be done “day by day” to make sure everyone was up to their responsibilities, he said.
He didn’t say whether the likes of public broadcaster RNZ should consider making an apology as well.
