Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Josh on August 6, 2012 at 2:33am

I have thought about this myself. More along the lines of non participation in certain parts than actually requesting it stop, which I am not brave enough for. The feeling I get from teacher training college is that the treaty was signed and this is what we have to do now. There is little room for questioning in any way. 

As a student teacher on placement I have decided to stay in the closet and go with it instead of rocking the boat. But when I am working I would like to know what to say when it comes up.

Permalink Reply by DonnaMaree Austin on August 6, 2012 at 4:54am

All the constant prayers. At the beginning of a meeting to open, at the end of a meeting to close it. Any get together at all and it drives me INSANE!! Which by the way, has nothing to do with supporting my Mormon client to pray at meals and help.her organise her bible studys, that doesn't bother me cos its not ME that's expected to participate personally (like any bloody thing in the staff office.)

Permalink Reply by Tammie Webster on August 6, 2012 at 12:28pm

I've been out of NZ a long time. Is this one of those "well it's religious, but it's more about respect" type of things? I believe that you should be able to opt out of things, rather than be expected to go along with it. Would it offend people if you opted out?

Permalink Reply by DonnaMaree Austin on August 6, 2012 at 2:57pm

Its part of Maori protocol, ergo it's cultural to pray every 5 mins. The boss at my work is Maori and REALLY into her culture, so from me (a pure blood Pakeha/Honki) yeah it would be offensive. Are there any Maori atheists in the group? Or any you (all) might know of I could get culturally sensitive advice on this?