Hoardings vandalism harms democracy

A vandalised hoarding in Sainsbury Reserve, Morningside

David Long’s article today on Stuff brings needed attention to the vandalism affecting hoardings across Auckland.

Co-chair Bobby Shen says the damage is no accident.

“This is a targeted attack on progressive candidates, and an attack on a well-functioning democracy,” Shen said.

“Election signs are there to promote the election and show Aucklanders their options for who to vote for. It’s especially concerning that they appear to be targeting women, Māori and Pasifika candidates.”

One victim, Albert-Eden Local Board candidate Emma McInnes, said the vandalism was meant to intimidate. She didn’t hold back, calling it “hateful”.

“Having a diversity of great people standing is how we get results for Auckland,” McInnes said.

“We’re always happy to debate the issues in good faith and respond to people’s concerns, but this isn’t debate - it’s abuse. 

“It’s unacceptable to try to intimidate people in this way. With such hateful actions on public display, it’s never been more important to vote for candidates who stand against hate.”

Experienced candidates and campaigners know to expect graffiti, but slicing faces and names out of hoardings goes far beyond pirate patches and moustaches. The racist abuse scrawled over a number of Māori and Pasifika candidates’ signs across Auckland is equally unacceptable.

As our awesome Albert-Eden Local Board candidate Emma says, it’s an attempt to intimidate, and it’s not OK.

We stand together for a thriving, connected and inclusive Auckland, and the vandalism shows how important that message is.