I think it would be helpful too, if some who are more clever with thinking and writing were to help us to argue against the plausible but undermining right wing claims that are trotted out everywhere. One that has struck me is the idea that if we don't like what we get paid then it is our "choice" to go and find another job. It seems that just that suggestion assumes the work we do is of low value. Who is doing the valuing? Do we value our contribution enough?
A disturbing list of, to use an academic term, sh#t f!&kry.
I loved how you’ve called out National and ACT—but might I suggest we include NZ First in the naming too? Maybe it’s time we use NACT1 as the true acronym for this Coalition of Cruelty.
And while the general election isn’t until 2026, we do have local body elections in October 2025. It’s worth asking: can we identify those NACT1-aligned candidates—especially the ones hiding behind “independent” or pseudoparty labels—and vote them out?
That would mean mobilising the many who usually don’t vote in local elections. But if we did, it could send a sharp, early message—and make the backlash against NACT1 visible and unignorable.
I’m well into the ‘slough of despond’, and have a prediction. Next on ‘then they came for…’ list will be contraception and birth control - we are following the US on many other fronts.
💜👍 Loving the coming together of all walks of life in Aotearoa - commentators included - to call out this abomination (and yes, on top of the others you list) Trying to compose a pithy sign for tomorrow outside an MP's office & wondering about the theme of women MP's already having pay equity & should they give it up? Hmmm ⁉️
I think it would be helpful too, if some who are more clever with thinking and writing were to help us to argue against the plausible but undermining right wing claims that are trotted out everywhere. One that has struck me is the idea that if we don't like what we get paid then it is our "choice" to go and find another job. It seems that just that suggestion assumes the work we do is of low value. Who is doing the valuing? Do we value our contribution enough?
Nice, great idea…I shall have a mull on it
🤔 The most obvious hole in that argument is "what other jobs?" when there are less full time jobs, let alone better paid, than a year ago 🤷
I love what you have said about a government being supposed to shepherd the land, that is a far cry to what is happening in New Zealand
A disturbing list of, to use an academic term, sh#t f!&kry.
I loved how you’ve called out National and ACT—but might I suggest we include NZ First in the naming too? Maybe it’s time we use NACT1 as the true acronym for this Coalition of Cruelty.
And while the general election isn’t until 2026, we do have local body elections in October 2025. It’s worth asking: can we identify those NACT1-aligned candidates—especially the ones hiding behind “independent” or pseudoparty labels—and vote them out?
That would mean mobilising the many who usually don’t vote in local elections. But if we did, it could send a sharp, early message—and make the backlash against NACT1 visible and unignorable.
👍💯 Local Body elections are a priority - many Councils have pushed back against this govt & we need to ensure NACT1 don't infiltrate by stealth 💪
Great ideas for productive things to do!
Thank you! I find I need something to do to stop me sliding into the slough of despond about it all
I’m well into the ‘slough of despond’, and have a prediction. Next on ‘then they came for…’ list will be contraception and birth control - we are following the US on many other fronts.
I have rubber rings and an elastrator if anyone wants do try diy vasectomy.
💜👍 Loving the coming together of all walks of life in Aotearoa - commentators included - to call out this abomination (and yes, on top of the others you list) Trying to compose a pithy sign for tomorrow outside an MP's office & wondering about the theme of women MP's already having pay equity & should they give it up? Hmmm ⁉️
Thank you Dr Bex! Inspirational advice!
Thank you!
Incredible summary and info - thank you so much, Dr Bex!
A great informative article. Thank you so much.