29 Nov 2022

InternetNZ says sorry amid fallout from Maori threat video

From Nine To Noon, 9:05 am on 29 November 2022

 InternetNZ has released the findings of a systemic review into racism in the organisation, following an incident last year involving a video threatening violence against Māori.

There were concerns not enough was done last May to remove an  8-minute YouTube video encouraging the slaughter of Māori - it stayed up for nearly 24 hours after authorities, including InternetNZ, were alerted.

Two Māori wahine council members resigned in protest at the delay and frustration at how their prior concerns about increasing online harm targeting Māori had been handled.

As a result, InternetNZ brought in an independent expert, Dr Hana O'Regan, to review the organisation's policies.

In confirming evidence of systemic racism, she made several recommendations - including an apology to those who raised concerns.

Kathryn speaks to one of them: Dr Karaitiana Taiuru, an academic and Māori digital rights expert. She is also joined by InternetNZ's chief executive, Viv Maidaborn.

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Photo: 123RF