Thousands of protesters marched through New Zealand’s capital Wellington on Tuesday to oppose a proposal that they say could harm relations between Maori and non-Maori citizens.
The protesters, numbering an estimated 15,000, marched to the parliament building in Wellington. The demonstration was the culmination of a protest march that began in other parts of the country.
The marchers included people of all ages. Some wore traditional Maori clothing and carried the Maori flag.
The protests were sparked by a proposal from a small political party that is part of the country’s conservative coalition government. The proposal would change the meaning of the Treaty of Waitangi, which is considered the country’s founding document.
Critics say the proposal would eliminate government programs for Maori citizens.
The proposal was introduced by the ACT Party. ACT Party leader David Seymour said the proposal would end special treatment for Maori citizens.
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said the proposal will not become law.
The Treaty of Waitangi was signed in 1840 by Maori chiefs and representatives of the British Crown. The treaty is seen as an agreement to share power between Maori and European New Zealanders.
Earlier, in a powerful display of protest, New Zealand’s parliament paused as MPs performed a haka, the traditional Māori dance against the controversial bill.
High ‘Haka’ Drama In New Zealand Parliament; Woman MP Tears Controversial Bill, Leads Stir
Opposition MP Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke led the dance after being tearing the bill in the Parliament.
