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The idea of equal representation amongst all New Zealanders
is very important in a democratic society. Maori make up 15% of the total
population in New Zealand (Miller, 2015), and to a degree we have other
cultures who make up the diversity of ethnicity in what New Zealand is
regarded as multi-cultural.
Even though Maori only make up 15% of New Zealand’s
population, why are Maori’s overly represented in criminal activities in
mainstream media? Why are there no positive stories that show Maori achievements
and advancement in different sector of our societies? Maori people are more than just statistics to
be thrown at the public on evening news or newspapers.
Let’s just take a look at what dominated the news in the
last several weeks. The Nia and Moko article, (Link - http://m.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11640777)
and most recently the Troy Solomon trial with the death of a baby (Link - http://m.nzherald.co.nz/aucklander/news/article.cfm?c_id=1503378&objectid=11652716).
Maori’s lead the discussion in New Zealand among the public sphere for child abuse in family
violence. Mainstream media has recently over the last several weeks produce
news involving horrific injuries and death to young children at the hands of
Maori parents. Mainstream media makes it appear as if these horrific crimes are
a cultural norm for Maori people.
However, if we are to examine their values
and beliefs it is totally the opposite, it is about the aroha and importance of
family ties. (Spoiler for Once were warriors Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfL1q6XXHGU).
Yeah I always find the representation of Maori in the media to be quite Biased. When they are represented their image is always mediated.Just take a look at the news hub thumbnails used for their videos. Crimes pertaining to white criminals always have a nice clean cut picture of them, but when it comes to Maori and/or pacific islander they always seem to be scruffy as if its their normal state of presentation.
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