Māori people fighting for their rights, their land, the Treaty but I think we also need to fight [with] them too for our [own] good. (Kiribati focus group) Every time I approach Māori people I get the vibe, and I feel like it’s because there’s some sort of level of understanding that ‘oh I know what you’ve been through’ so there’s level of connection there…In some way it’s part of their culture, intrinsic in their beliefs. They’re quite open and welcoming and the sense of family is strong. It reminds me of Indigenous in South America, they share a lot of similarities, the land, people, everyone belongs to the land. There’s a lot of values so it makes them be more open to everyone. (Latin American focus group) 8.2. Representation that reflects a diverse Aotearoa New Zealand Some participants highlighted that diverse and inclusive leadership within parliament and across government public sector could influence public perceptions and provide a strong example of commitment to eliminating and minimising racism in Aotearoa New Zealand. This commitment could also be reflected in a whole of government approach to addressing racism and inequities, informed by strong understandings of the cultural differences, strengths and realities for different ethnic populations. Māori focus groups noted a need to ensure a strong commitment to Māori partnership, representation and support within the kaupapa of all agencies. When you actively think about partnership or Māori and immigration you cannot have non-Māori running it. You can have Māori words and Māori headings but when you don’t have whakaaro Māori behind it you completely change the whole perspective of it. (Te Ika-a-Māui Māori focus group) Tikanga Māori and respectful relationships were considered critical forms of leadership that should be embedded in parliamentary and political language and communication within Parliament, government agencies and communities. When you look at our parliament system and you look at the way they discuss certain issues they’re like cats and dogs going at it. I think the language needs to change. I think we need to get to a place as people where we acknowledge each other’s views. We don’t have to agree but we can respect each other. (Te Ika-a-Māui Māori focus group) 8.3. Expand our knowledge Education for children and young people: Participants commonly noted that education that first starts in the home is critical to ensuring children and young people learn to value and embrace all cultures - We’re taught racism, me āta whakaaro as a whānau how do we address that as a whānau. From the early stage of childhood, educating them, they won't have anything like racism. We're all New Zealanders first. That's a long process but if we properly educate one www.malatest-intl.com Drivers of racism – March 2021 81