IINZ urges government to say no to racism
The Israel Institute of New Zealand is calling on the NZ government to boycott the proposed event commemorating the 2001 Durban Conference, where pictures of Hitler were circulated and Jews were blamed for 9/11.
Dr David Cumin
IINZ co-director, Dr David Cumin, says it should be an easy decision.
“It is clear that the event promotes racism. That is why New Zealand boycotted attempts to revive the conference in 2001 and 2009, alongside other democratic nations.”
Foreign Minister, Nanaia Mahuta, responded to written questions this week stating that she is still waiting for advice from Ministry officials.
“It should be a no-brainer given that 11 other countries, including Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States have all committed to boycotting it this year so as not to lend support for racism. It’s astounding that our officials cannot produce advice about attending a global event less than one month out.” said Dr Cumin.IINZ has produced an online tool at www.saynotodurbanracism.nz for anyone wanting to write to Minister Mahuta and Dr Cumin says that hundreds of Kiwis have used it so far.
