Race Relations Commissioner Dame Susan Devoy says a Canterbury University professor who has spoken publicly against racist and sexist student behaviour epitomises the Kiwi fighting spirit.

“It’s not easy to be the one who stands up and speaks out but Professor Veer is giving us all a very important lesson: even young people hold obsolete, outdated opinions that belong in 1914 not 2014,” said Dame Susan.

“Everyday racism happens in our communities every day – it’s not unique to Canterbury University - but only everyday people can make sure it’s not part of our future.”

This year’s Diversity Forum was hosted in partnership with Canterbury University and executives from businesses such as the BNZ, AIA and multinational engineering firm Aurecon told participants that in a growing global economy: diversity gives corporates a leading edge. Diversity also goes hand in hand with innovation.

“Students who embrace xenophobia and sexism will be the dinosaurs of the 21st Century workforce,” said Dame Susan.

“Wanting a ‘tolerance focused’ campus isn’t enough, student leaders need to lead and work positively to help embed respect and dignity into campus culture.”

Dame Susan said Christchurch students should never forget that foreign nations were some of the first to send search and rescue teams into the devastated city in February 2011: “Kiwi Indians also mobilised quickly and within days were providing free accommodation and food. Right now expert migrant workers form the backbone of the Christchurch rebuild while companies from across Asia are investing millions in the quake hit city.”

“While we’ve come a long as a nation in terms of treating each with respect – it’s clear some of us still have a long way to go. The journey is one all of us must take together,” said Dame Susan.

“Every New Zealander deserves to be treated with mana and respect, everyone deserves a fair go.” said Dame Susan.

ENDS

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