Activism for 'introverts': Craftivists find their political voice
Auckland crafters are on a mission to change the world one stitch at a time.
The newly-launched Craftivist Companions are turning to needlework to find their political voice at Ponsonby's Unitarian Church in central Auckland.
Ten “introverted” activists are creating mini protest banners
– the square placards will form a temporary quilt that will be presented to Auckland Council on April 1 for the updated living wage announcement.
The banners will then be left as “respectful graffiti” on public spaces such as lamp posts.
Group founder and church member Kay Parish said the goal was to get people thinking from a different perspective.
A midwife driven by a strong dislike of injustice, she was inspired by a movement in England led by Sarah Corbett and the Craftivist Collective.
“Sarah talks about craftivism as being an ideal form of activism for introverts, people who don’t love getting out there shouting and challenging people in a confrontational way,” said Parish.
“Craftivism is a way of approaching people more gently and presenting a message in a more respectful and thoughtful way.”
Corbett’s group persuaded British retailer Marks & Spencer to pay its workers a living wage by giving every board member a personalised hand-embroidered handkerchief explaining why paying a living wage should fit with their values.
“The board members really took that message on board ...and it just shifted their perspective,” Parish said.
The Titirangi resident said paying people a fair wage helped them live their lives with dignity.
Read more here:
www.stuff.co.nz...
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.9% Yes
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22.2% No
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1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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