July 20th, 2011

Maori women put up with violence in Christchurch

Staff at the Otautahi Women’s Refuge in Christchurch say many Maori women are putting up with domestic violence while they struggle to cope with other stresses in their lives.

Otautahi is the only Women’s Refuge in the South Island dedicated to Maori women. Its manager Kumeroa Johnston says, like other refuges in Christchurch, Otautahi has seen a steady flow of women using its services since the earthquakes started last September.

“But we also know there are many wahine in the community who are experiencing violence but not seeking help.

“They are in shock and not sure what to do. Many have damaged homes and partners that have lost their jobs, are drinking heavily, and being violent to them. But they feel their top priority must be to keep the family together and that they should just cope with the violence.”

She says men who are practiced at abusing their partners often know the right buttons to push.

“They tell these women ‘why would you be worrying about that when I’ve just lost my job’.”

Kumeora says the situation is particularly acute for Maori women as many of them don’t have family in Christchurch.

For example, she has been supporting a Maori woman whose New Brighton home has been red stickered and whose partner is unemployed as a result of his workplace being red stickered.

“She has young children and is pregnant. Her partner has been drinking heavily and getting violent. Her family are in Whangarei so calling us and coming to our safe house has been the only way she can get support.”

Kumeora says the earthquakes have also impacted on Otautahi staff and the refuge is short of workers.

She hopes people will donate generously to this month’s women’s Refuge fundraising appeal, to ensure Otautahi can continue to provide a safe place for battered women.

Donations can be made to Women’s Refuge in the following ways:

• Street Appeal – collectors will be out in all the main centres between Monday 18th July and Saturday 24th July
• Trade Me Auction – some amazing experiences are up for sale. That includes a coaching session with rugby league star Ruben Wiki, a trip to New York to meet with the global CEO of Saatchi & Saatchi and having Anika Moa sing at your wedding.
View the auction at www.trademe.co.nz/refuge
• Text REFUGE to 2026 and follow the directions

www.womensrefuge.org.nz

ENDS

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