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New Zealand, September 8, 2016
The Human Rights Commission is calling on New Zealanders to sign an open letter to New Zealand Rugby, which asks them to seek support in addressing their internal culture issues.
The open letter follows the outcome of the internal NZ Rugby investigation, into an incident involving a woman named Scarlette and unidentified members of the Chiefs rugby team. The letter has already been signed by a number of prominent New Zealand women whose organisations collectively represent thousands of New Zealanders.
Equal Employment Opportunities Commissioner Dr Jackie Blue says now is the time for NZ Rugby to address their internal culture issues.
“The internal investigation into the incident involving Scarlette and members of the Chiefs rugby team has highlighted to all New Zealanders that NZ Rugby’s judiciary process is not appropriate for dealing with issues of integrity, mana, respect and basic personal rights.
“NZ Rugby has previously refused to take up offers of support and expertise from external parties with these sorts of investigations. Until they do, these investigations will continue to produce the exact same results.
“The open letter is about letting NZ Rugby know that enough is enough and we want them to take us up on our offer to support them through this process. As much as New Zealanders love rugby – we need New Zealanders to respect women.”
The open letter can be viewed and signed here: www.loverugbyrespectwomen.org.nz
