New Legislation Called For In Equality Fight (Press, 23 February 1989)

On 23 February 1989, South Island Human Rights Commissioner Ms Diana Shand discussed the urgent need for new legislation to protect vulnerable groups in society, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with AIDS and physical disabilities. Having held her position since 1985, Shand expressed concerns regarding the rise in human rights violations during times of economic hardship, suggesting that societal changes have led to increased discrimination. Shand emphasised the necessity for tolerance and inclusivity, arguing that access to training, employment, and housing is essential for a society’s wellbeing. She stated, “A society without access is a society without hope,” highlighting the grim conditions faced by those who are marginalised. She pointed out that current frameworks fail to adequately protect children, the elderly, and those with disabilities, with specific mention of the lack of a national constituency for people with physical impairments. Despite institutions moving towards integration for individuals with disabilities, Shand argued that societal perceptions still tend to focus on disabilities rather than abilities. She raised alarms over the implications of AIDS, labelling it a “time bomb” that would impact everyone while also noting the discrimination faced by those living with the disease. Shand recounted a disturbing incident where an employee was evicted from company housing for caring for a relative with AIDS, exemplifying the prejudice present in society. Additionally, Shand addressed the issue of ageism in New Zealand, highlighting a troubling trend where employers favour candidates within a narrow age range while seeking experience akin to older generations. She remarked that with an ageing population, the implications of age discrimination are increasingly critical and tragic. In her call for change, Shand advocated for a dedicated children’s rights commissioner to act as a guardian of young people's interests, asserting that children are frequently overlooked in the existing rights framework. She stressed that despite some progress in promoting equality, more efforts are required to ensure that individuals of different genders and cultural backgrounds are recognised and valued in the workplace. Shand’s background and experiences contribute to her understanding of these societal issues. She received her education in diverse environments, from a high country sheep station to an American field scholarship at a boarding school. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and an MBA from Canadian institutions, and her professional journey has included roles in data processing, teaching, and university lecturing. In sum, Ms Shand's reflections highlight the persistent challenges of discrimination and the need for comprehensive measures to support equality across various demographic groups in New Zealand. Her insights underscore the importance of fostering skills and understanding across genders and cultures to promote a more inclusive society.

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