An Ashburton school has apologised, after it was criticised for requiring uniform passes to carry “incorrect uniform items” such as pounamu.
The principal has apologised, saying he is “grateful” to those who raised the issues – enabling him to make things right.
The laminated passes include the students name, class and the specified “incorrect uniform” item they have been allowed to wear.
A photo was shared on social media, which labelled pounamu as an incorrect uniform item, it was safe to say social media was outraged.
“Pounamu is part of our culture, and it’s a taonga that holds deep spiritual significance. It’s not just an accessory. I don’t see why Māori students should need a pass to wear something that represents their identity and heritage,” one user said.
“It’s giving Apartheid South Africa. It’s giving ‘you can, but only when WE say’.” the user who posted the photo said.
Ashburton Intermediate Principal Brent Gray provided a statement this morning after discussions with the board.
“We are grateful to those who have raised the issues around the pass and will rectify immediately any seeking of passes to wear a taonga/pounamu, which we have not denied the wearing of to anyone during my time here,” he said.
“The Board will also review the uniform code ensuring that incidents of this nature do not occur in the future.
“We have issued a response and apology to our school and Māori community and deeply regret any offense we have caused and apologise to all whānau hapū iwi as it was not our intention to cause any grief.”
Photo credit: 1News
