March at the Mount against child sexual exploitation

This was the fourth march organised by the Saint Nicholas Children’s Trust – and the first in the Bay of Plenty – following others in Nelson, Wellington and Christchurch.

Founded earlier this year by senior health leader and Motueka Catholic parishioner Angela Francis, the Saint Nicholas Children’s Trust aims to bring visibility to an issue that remains hidden, despite its widespread impact.

“Child sexual exploitation is not just happening overseas – it’s happening right here in New Zealand, often in ways that are covert and hard to detect,” Ms Francis said.

“Our marches are a way to give a voice to children who cannot speak out, and to push for the awareness and change that’s urgently needed.”

Participants gathered at Marine Parade in Mt Maunganui at 10am on November 15, marching together through the town’s streets. Supporters wore masks to represent children whose experiences are too often silenced.

Also in attendance was Labour MP Jan Tinetti, who opened the event, and Act MP Cameron Luxton.

The Trust pointed to research showing the high percentages of New Zealand women and men who have experienced sexual violence before the age of 18, and also the percentage of New Zealand men who have experienced sexual attraction to minors.

“At Saint Nicholas Trust we consider awareness as the first step in evidence-based prevention, so that is why we focus on raising awareness,” Ms Francis said.

She said the response from communities across the country has been encouraging.

“It’s been wonderful to see so many local leaders, families and New Zealanders showing up, asking how they can help at our events this year,” she said.

FULL STORY

SNCT Mt Maunganui march November (St Nicholas Children’s Trust)

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