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Maori Group Apologizes to Israel over New Zealand's Opposition at UN

(J-Wire-Australia) Sheree Trotter - On July 29, the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand organized a special ceremony to welcome the Israeli ambassador, Dr. Itzhak Gerberg. Led by elder Pat Ruka, and joined by many Maori from around the nation, a welcome ceremony was held at the meeting house in West Auckland. The ceremony of apology was held to express regret for New Zealand's actions in standing against Israel at the UN and to seek forgiveness. Ruka carries the stories of his ancestors who, because of their Christian beliefs, maintained a deep respect for the people of Israel. He remembers that his forbears travelled to the capital city, Wellington, to offer the government tribal land for Jewish refugees following World War II. National MP Alfred Ngaro spoke on the orators' bench, recalling his family connection to the Jewish people through his grandmother. Many similarities between Maori and Jewish cultures were noted, such as the emphasis on genealogy, language and land. The writer is a Maori New Zealander and Ph.D candidate in history at the University of Auckland.
2018-08-02 00:00:00
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