Daylight and Human Rights Commission Deliver Survivors' Floral Tribute to NZ Parliament

Last Wednesday, survivors of abuse in care, alongside Te Kāhui Tika Tangata Human Rights Commission, delivered a symbol of both strength and trauma to Minister Erica Stanford and MPs from across the political spectrum.

Carried through Wellington to the steps of Parliament was a bouquet collected from the darkest corners of the country -- sites of state and faith-based abuse. Gathered from nine separate grounds, it included flowers from the former facilities of Ōwairaka Boys' Home, Porirua Psychiatric Hospital, and Marylands School in Christchurch.

This powerful arrangement was sent as a reminder of the government's responsibility to survivors, exactly two years after the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care released its findings.

The Whanaketia report confirmed more than 200,000 children and vulnerable adults suffered abuse, neglect, violence, sexual assault, and torture in state and faith-based care between 1950 and 1999.

In its national apology, the Government promised to act on the 233 recommendations needed to transform Aotearoa's care system. Despite this, fewer than 10% have been fully committed to -- a failure that was made impossible to ignore, with the bouquet wrapped in cloth printed with every recommendation.

Human Rights Commission Tatau-Uruora (chief executive) Meg de Ronde said,
“Many survivors have waited too long for justice. The recommendations provide a clear and achievable roadmap for redress, and ensure such abuse does not happen again.”

With all of New Zealand’s major media organisations in attendance, this emotionally charged event served as a platform for survivors to be heard once more, calling for Aotearoa’s leaders to honour their promise.

A clear message reinforced by a nationwide campaign, including OOH placements that surround the Beehive, and a film series led by survivors.

Daylight executive creative director Charlie Godinet said, “A promise is just words without action, and as a nation we must hold those in power to account. I would like to acknowledge all the mōrehu who trusted us with this kaupapa. We stand with you.”

The public are being urged to show their support for the survivors of abuse in care by sending a reminder to their local MP.