May 25, 2016
Media Release: Mayor Andrew Judd Peace Walk
Media Release: Mayor Andrew Judd Peace Walk
On Wednesday 15 June, people from across New Zealander will gather in Taranaki to participate in a three day, forty-four kilometer Peace Walk from the Mayor’s office in New Plymouth to Parihaka. While being mindful of the turbulent past (and present) of Taranaki, this walk is a chance to transform conversations and to move forward together.
“This hikoi is about the deep possibilities and potential of healing and reconciliation” said spokesperson Glen Bennett. “We are a group of active citizens, stirred by Mayor Andrew Judd speaking up and challenging racism whilst facilitating community engagement through peaceful resistance.“
“We would like to see Taranaki focus on the potential of peace and work towards becoming the peaceful province, a beacon for Aotearoa,” Bennett said. “Our message is simple: We want Taranaki to be a place where we are all safe – no matter where, when or who you are. We welcome support from anyone who can see the potential of coming together in a platform of peace.”
Peace Walk participants are invited to gather at the New Plymouth District Council at 9.30am on Wednesday 15 June to join Mayor Andrew Judd walking the talk of peace. “Every step counts,” Bennett said. “People won’t have to walk the whole 44 kilometers. It’s a symbol of walking together, into a new conversation.”
The Peace Walk programme is:
Day one – Gather 9.30am, New Plymouth District Council then walk to Oakura Hall, with a community forum 3pm-5pm.
Day two – Gather 9.30am, Oakura Hall, then walk to Okato Hall, with a community forum 3pm-5pm
Day three – Gather 8.00am at Okato (Hempton) Hall to Parihaka.
A full breakdown of the timetable for the Peace Walk will be available on the Peace Province Initiative facebook page.
For more information email peaceprovince@gmail.com.
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