Mothers’ efforts deserve recognition

9 May 2012

Mothers’ efforts deserve recognition

The Families Commission says Mothers’ Day, observed this Sunday, is an opportunity to recognise the rich contribution of mothers to families and whānau throughout the country.

Families Commission Chief Executive, Paul Curry, says the vast majority of New Zealand mums are doing a great job and the Commission’s research and knowledge base is testament to the efforts of mothers from right across the social spectrum.

Mr Curry says, “We often hear about those families who have failed in some way, but it’s important too to acknowledge and celebrate those who are getting it right.”

“He says I have been particularly moved by accounts throughout our research of mothers, grandmothers, aunties and foster mums, who, in spite of many hurdles, focus on the value and importance of family and whānau and make a huge contribution to the success of future generations.”

“In a Families Commission report on teen parenting, our research showed that becoming a parent at a young age certainly brings some real challenges, but we also found evidence that many young mums found parenthood to be a significant turning point in their lives. They were finding their feet and doing an amazing job. Their own mums and extended family and whānau were often an important part of the equation too.”

Mr Curry says, “I’m also inspired by the accounts of Māori women leaders in our Mātiro Whakamua: Looking over the horizon report, which shows the strength and mana they bring to their work with whānau and as movers and shakers in their own whānau.”

“This report was developed from interviews with ten incredible women who demonstrate that the role of the matriarch is one to be valued and revered. As role models, influencers and holders of knowledge, some of them have been ‘mum’ to many more than their immediate offspring.”

He says, “I encourage you this weekend, to take this time to recognise the important women in your family or whānau; your mothers and those who have had a role in nurturing you. Of course, the whole family is important, but let this Sunday be all about Mum.”

For a closer look at our research:
• Teenage pregnancy and parenting
• Mātiro Whakamua: Looking over the horizon

The Families Commission is a centre of excellence for knowledge about family and whānau in New Zealand.

It generates and analyses knowledge about families and whānau to inform and influence policy development, programme management and family service delivery.

Through independent and impartial research and evaluation, the Families Commission has built an authoritative and robust knowledge base about issues relating to family and whānau.

Subject specialists are widely knowledgeable about family and whānau and are available for comment on key family issues.

An autonomous Crown entity, the Commission was established in 2004 under the Families Commission Act 2003.

Visit us at: www.nzfamilies.org.nz

ENDS

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