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Poverty and inequality in Aotearoa New Zealand - speech

'Under the influence ...'

Lisa Beech, Research and Advocacy Co-ordinator for Caritas, made a speech on poverty and inequality at an election forum at St John's in the City in Wellington on 3 November 2011.

Speaking from her experiences as a beneficiary and low-wage worker, Lisa ‘confessed’ to regularly committing ‘the unspeakable crime of buying take-aways on benefit or pay day – usually Fish and Chips without the Fish.’

Examining the economic inequality that has become entrenched in New Zealand society, she says, ‘It is true, that some people under the influence of alcohol behave violently and carelessly towards people they love.... [But] it is also true, that some people under the influence of cocktail parties become immune to the desperation of people with empty cupboards. ... And some people, under the influence of individualism, lose a sense of solidarity with the most poor and vulnerable members of society.’

This election, she advocates making your decision on how to vote ‘under the influence of love’.

The election forum was organised by the Otago University Centre for Theology and Public Issues.