ANZASW Call to Action on the Genocide in Gaza.
Tēnā koe Victoria
In the past 72 hours, Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 591 Palestinians, including over 200 children, and injured more than 1,000 in Gaza. Over 70% of the casualties are women, children, and the elderly. The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza and the West Bank demands urgent action.
As social workers, we cannot remain silent while innocent lives are lost, and communities suffer. In alignment with Neil Ballantyne’s Call to Action for Gaza, the Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers (ANZASW) stands in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
What ANZASW is Doing:
Advocating for Political Action – We endorse Professor Neil Ballantyne’s Call to Action and support the Green Party’s Members’ Bill to sanction Israel.
Engaging with Key Stakeholders – We will continue to explore partnerships with advocacy and humanitarian organisations working for Palestinian justice.
Creating Spaces for Advocacy – ANZASW remains committed to exploring ways to support members in taking a stand, advocating for change, and supporting Palestinian communities.
What You Can Do:
Contact Your MP – Urge them to support Chlöe Swarbrick’s bill to ensure this issue is debated in Parliament. Just 6 more Government MPs need to support.
Raise Awareness – Share Neil Ballantyne’s Call to Action and other credible sources within your networks.
Engage and Take Action – Seek out opportunities to take action and reflect on how you, as a social worker, can make a meaningful impact in responding to this crisis. Watch Professor Neil’s webinar on challenging oppression, advancing social justice and protecting human rights.
As John Stuart Mill wrote in 1867:
"Let not any one pacify his conscience by the delusion that he can do no harm if he takes no part, and forms no opinion. Bad men need nothing more to compass their ends, than that good men should look on and do nothing."
If you take action, please inform Justice for Palestine. We also welcome any responses you receive from MPs. Guidance on writing to your MP is available through Justice for Palestine’s resources.
Ngā mihi,
ANZASW Board & Chief Executive
MEMBER SUPPORT TEAM
p 03 349 0190
e members@anzasw.nz
Level 2, 318 Lambton Quay, Wellington
www.anzasw.nz