MultiCultural Aotearoa

MultiCultural Aotearoa (MCA) is an Anti-Nationalist group that was formed in 2004 in response to racist attacks in the New Zealand capital, Wellington.

Related Topics:
New Zealand - Wellington

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Its main policies are to:

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• Oppose the actions of the New Zealand National Front (NZNF)
• Oppose "humiliating immigration policies"
• Stop "Maori-bashing"

On October 23rd, 2004, the MCA led an "anti-racism" march from Te Papa to the steps of parliament to protest an NZNF demonstration. The NZNF had originally planned to demonstrate against Asian immigration, but after the MCA march was organised the topic was changed to support for the New Zealand flag. Among the NZNF members present were National Front director Kyle Chapman and Kerry Bolton, National Secretary of the party.

Related Topics:
October 23rd - 2004 - Te Papa - Parliament - Kyle Chapman - Kerry Bolton

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Estimates of attendance at the MCA march vary widely: the national television networks estimated 300, the NZ Herald estimated 800, and the MCA itself claimed 3,000. It included anarchists and members of the International Socialist Organization, among other supporters.

Related Topics:
NZ Herald - Anarchists - International Socialist Organization

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Violence broke out when the "Scary Fairies" (about 30 people dressed in comical costumes and masks), who senior police described as a "rent-a-crowd protest", taunted the NZNF and were also joined by MCA marchers and bystanders. Eventually a mob of about 150-200 people surrounded members of the NZNF, which led to a two hour standoff. Police created a separation barrier, but ultimately lost control of the situation and fighting broke out. An NZNF member wielding a baton was arrested, as were two counter-protesters, one for carrying a knife. Several people were injured in the scuffles, none seriously.

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