Mana Movement recently received a request from Australia to support the Aboriginal communities being forced off their land. So let’s get on our Mana gears and hold up a sign in solidarity with Aboriginal communities. Please post your picture of yourself holding a sign in comments below.

Kia ora MANA Wahine,

my name is Alison. I didn’t get a chance to meet the two of you while I was living in Christchurch and working with MANA people there. Now back in Adelaide, Aus. I know you are both aware of the despicable moves of the Abbott govt to begin forcibly removing Aboriginal people from their lands and communities. The sentiment in Australia more broadly is of disdain for the attacks on people coming from every front (on public healthcare, workers rights, funding for women’s shelters etc). But this latest attack on Aboriginal people is galvanising a lot of anger. It’s also galvanising Aboriginal people across Australia and across cultural and language groups to start organising. We’ve had a wave of angry, well-organised rallies and recent anti-government rallies have also focused on the attacks on the First Peoples. My question is, would it be possible for MANA to put out a short statement in solidarity against the ongoing colonial destruction and genocide of Aboriginal peoples here? Maybe attached to a photo of some MANA members? Will go well on social media, drawing links between indigenous struggles. I think MANA, as a political fighting force led by Maori is also an example of organisation that will resonate right now and inspire.

Kind Regards, Alison Pennington