The departure of Sir Collin Tukuitonga, a venerated Pacific health leader, from his roles in the New Zealand government rings an alarm for the Pacific communities. Known for his unwavering commitment to our health and well-being, Sir Collin’s resignation, driven by a lack of confidence in the new administration, brings to light serious concerns about future health policies. His critical stance on the government’s repeal of smoke-free legislation and the disestablishment of the Māori Health Authority/Te Aka Whai Ora points to potential risks for our Māori and Pacific brethren, as reported by Te Ao Māori News and RNZ News.
Sir Collin’s voice has been a beacon of advocacy and expertise, particularly evident during the Covid-19 pandemic where his leadership helped Pacific communities achieve some of the highest vaccination rates according to RNZ News. His exit poses a poignant question, who will carry the torch of representing and advocating for our unique health needs? The absence of such a dedicated voice threatens to widen existing health disparities, highlighting the need for strong Pacific representation in the corridors of power.
This issue transcends health policies. It’s a reflection of our representation in New Zealand’s decision-making sphere. Historically, Pacific voices have been instrumental in advocating for inclusive policies. Without these voices, there’s a risk of regressing on the progress made in health equity, education, and social welfare. This situation calls for a collective voice and action from our community, ensuring that our needs and aspirations are not just heard, but actively addressed.
As we face this new reality, it’s crucial for the Pacific community to engage actively in shaping the policies that affect us. We must seek to amplify our voices, whether through community forums, direct political engagement, or supporting Pacific leaders who can advocate on our behalf. This moment is not just about loss but about reasserting our place and role in the broader narrative of New Zealand. It’s a call to action for all of us to ensure our voice is not only present but influential in the decisions that shape our lives.