The Week Ending 25 July 2014

I can’t promise we’ll do this every week, but on a semi-regular basis it’s good to look back on the week that’s been and reflect on what we have done to pursue the goal of ending slavery as we know it.  There is a risk of putting all the tid bits of the week, which we will try to keep to a minimum!  “Just the main bits Peter, that’s all we need!” 🙂

On Monday we completed our first Info Graphic.  By Thursday we were up to version 1.4.  We appreciated all the feedback and pretty excited to launch some print options for those who would like bulk supplies of these great cards.

On Tuesday at our team meeting we had a guest who has committed some of his experience to help us get to where we want to get as an organisation.  You may not hear or see much of this person but you will see their work.  It is much like an extension to me in the Chief Executive’s role.  Also on Tuesday Nicola met with members of the Immigration NZ team which was very fruitful in our building relationships with Government agencies.  We will keep you posted on how our relationship is developing.

On Wednesday Steph was in Christchurch for the day and visited the law firm who was featured on 3rd Degree, TV3, Wednesday 16 July.  This was very fruitful in terms of meeting with possible partner organisations and like minded people.  As we understand better how we could help and the help we need from the general public we will let you know. Nicola delivered another great presentation to the students of Hebron School.

Thursday we heard about an exploitation case in the Bay of Plenty (BoP) region and posted the article online.  I sought an update from the reporter who originally published the story.

Friday we heard back from the reporter and made contact with an advocate for Hardeep Singh, the person in question.  Again we developed a good relationship with those we talked to and there is scope for significant work and advocacy going forward.  Also this Friday we had our monthly Freedom Coffee Club.  We only had one person turn up but the conversation we had was excellent and very timely.  Finally, Steph completed the first draft on a report she has been working hard on.  She will be announcing this report in the next week or so, so watch out for that.

A Quote from a donor this week:
“Slave-like conditions and migrant exploitation is a massive problem in New Zealand. It will take a huge collective effort to prevent this organised criminal activity from taking hold any further, and then even more work needs to be done to fight back and reclaim the rights and dignity of these workers. Well done to Stand Against Slavery, and thank you!” ~  R Rolston

If you would like to donate please do so by going to our give a little page here; deposit funds directly into our account BNZ 02-0108-0295795-000 or send us a cheque to P O Box 12220, Penrose 1642, Auckland.  If you are overseas and would like to donate please contact me on peter@standagainstslavery.com.

We had a very productive week at Stand Against Slavery, and look forward to many more to come.

Freedom!

Peter Mihaere
Founder and CEO Stand Against Slavery