So here when migrants come to my office and inform me of the situation, what I do is become a mediator between the company or manager, just to see where the underlying issues are between the person and the company. (Filipino focus group) [Long-term migrant – business owner] was turning around and making it easier for [recent migrant] because it was so hard for him. We hear stories all the time about how more settled people who have come into New Zealand are helping more recent arrivals. There’s a real knock on effect as well. (Provider) 6.3. Summary Participants’ strength and emotional armour to cope with racism was worn in different ways: • Minimising the impact of racism: Coping with racism through emotional suppression was described as negatively impacting on ones’ emotional and mental health as well as those close to them. Humour was another form of coping which often occurred within ethnic groups about their own realities and experiences. This may be viewed as a way of connecting with others and sharing the pain associated with racism. However, laughter and satire about one’s own ethnic group were also described as a consequence of not being able to cope and a way to normalise racism, validate racist stereotypes and mask racist intent. Humorous responses to racism were also noted by some to reflect a lack of understanding and connection with culture and identity. • Living with racism: Survival, making sacrifices in Aotearoa New Zealand, challenging racist stereotypes by proving oneself within society and doing what needs to be done in the short-term to ensure a better future were noted as forms of settling into Aotearoa New Zealand and coping with racism. This form of coping required a strong sense of emotional strength, resilience, hope and grit (courage and strength of character). • Actively taking a stand against racism: Challenging racist behaviour was a considered a form of minimising and preventing the escalation of racist behaviour. The consequences of this included empowering individuals as well as feelings of discomfort. Other forms of standing against racism included taking time to educate others and strengthening cultural identity – both non-confrontational and long-term coping strategies to influence behaviour and attitudinal change and build resilience for future generations. These forms of coping required a strong sense of confidence, self-belief, patience, resilience and access to cultural knowledge and resources. Emotional armour was strengthened by: • Migrants supporting migrants: Ethnic-specific networks, groups and forums provided migrants with opportunities to connect and collectively support www.malatest-intl.com Drivers of racism – March 2021 69