Vietnamese Orphans

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31763, 21 August 1968, Page 12

Vietnamese Orphans

Sir.—War is

wonder in days of peace in our own country what it is to live in such fear and confusion not only for ourselves but for all around us. We know what it is like in Vietnam. I am disgusted with a letter today concerning adoption of Vietnam orphans suggesting that we are allowing ourselves to become “a dumping ground for human problems of Asia.” As for New Zealand orphans, families are applying for them consistently, and their need is not as great. Most intelligent adults can take care of themselves, but children of any colour or creed need at least a little family or adult care. Better to give these children a chance. “Charity begins at home” should be international, with no room for small-minded conventionalism.—Yours, etc., HUMANIST. August 20, 1968.

Sir,—l marvel at the sick stupidity of those who consider that bringing a group of Vietnamese orphans to New Zealand is a step to our absorption into Asia. No doubt Mr Thompson does not consider bringing European, particularly British, immigrants, into New Zealand an act of New Zealand being absorbed into Europe. Mr Thompson’s “organisation” is a thinly disguised fascist front that should have been outlawed long ago if we had any respect for our Maori citizens. If New Zealand's efforts in Vietnam are partly responsible for the creation of orphans, it is our responsibility to do something for them. If defence does not begin at home, neither does our charity to the victims of our defence. The healthy response by New Zealanders to the appeal to adopt these unfortunate children is some indication that race paranoia is fortunately limited to obscure minorities.—Yours, etc., KIWI. August 20, 1968.