Ashleigh Putt-Fallows (She/Her/Ia) | Ngāti Whātua, Ngāpuhi-Ngāti, Tūhoe
Australian born judge faces deportation from Kiribati
An Australian-born judge residing in Kiribati faces potential deportation following a tribunal ruling recommending his removal from the judiciary. The tribunal report, recently presented in the Kiribati Parliament, will undergo debate this week, marking the final days of the current parliamentary session before the upcoming general election. The case centers on David Lambourne, who has lived in Kiribati for years and is married to the opposition leader. The tribunal focused on Lambourne's failure to deliver a written decision on a civil court case in 2020, citing delays exacerbated by COVID-19 restrictions. Despite previous rulings in Lambourne's favor, the government seeks his removal. The tribunal's recommendation to Parliament suggests considering Lambourne's removal due to persistent delays in judgments and allegations of bullying. With the ruling party likely aiming to resolve the issue before elections, Lambourne faces immediate deportation, though he may appeal the tribunal's findings.
Hawaii’s Merrie Monarch Festival
The 61st annual Merrie Monarch Festival, a week-long celebration of Hawaiian culture, concluded in Hilo, Hawai’i, leaving behind a legacy of tradition, language, and song. The festival, dedicated to honoring King David La’amea Kalākaua, known as the Merri Monarch, and marking the 40th anniversary of the Hawaiian language revitalization movement, showcased the art of hula and the spirit of community. Bringing together locals and visitors alike, the festival featured not only mesmerizing hula performances but also a vibrant parade and an invitational arts fair. Haʻamauliola Aiona, a teacher at Ke Kula ʻO Nāwahīokalaniʻōpuʻu charter school and a veteran dancer, emphasized the significance of the event, describing it as a moment for Hilo to shine. For participants like Aiona's students and groups such as Ka Lā ʻŌnohi Mai O Haʻehaʻe, who clinched first place in the Hula Kahiko and Hula ‘Auana competition, the festival was both a showcase of talent and a tribute to the rich heritage of Hawai’i.
Cooperation is key: NZ Gang
A Black Power ex associate has advocated for cooperation between gangs and authorities to address antisocial behavior within their ranks. Speaking before a parliamentary committee, Eugene Ryder, who has a history with the gang since his teenage years, suggested that banning gang patches might not effectively deter members, as they could still display allegiance through other means such as colors or facial tattoos. Ryder's testimony comes in the context of the Gang Legislation Amendment Bill, which aims to prohibit gang insignia in public spaces, grant police enhanced powers to disperse gang gatherings, and consider gang association as an aggravating factor in sentencing. Asserting the importance of collaboration, Ryder emphasized the willingness of gangs to engage constructively, citing past interactions with former Prime Minister Sir Rob Muldoon. He stressed the potential benefits for their community, expressing a desire to mitigate the negative impacts on future generations.