MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 17230, 22 December 1923, Page 8

MAORI ENTERTAINERS.

SPIRITED REPLY TO CRITICISM. ‘(Special to tho “Star.”) WANGANUI, December 21. Ratana’s trusted guide, philosopher and friend, Peter Moko, is much concerned about adverse criticism, which, be say a, appeared m a Christchurch newspaper when the Katana entertainers visited the City of the Plains. Moko states in his own quaint way; ‘lt is six months ago sines© tho Katana. Ladies’ Orchestra and Maori Entertainers initiated a Dominion tour, the object being to raise funds in ai d of the Maori undenominational Christian church and school to b© erected at Rat-ana. Although monetary assistance was repeatedly offered to further the movement, Ratana complaisantly refused to accept a gratuity, holding that it is not rectitude to accede to the generosity of tho people without tendering something equivalent in return, hence the company’s purpose in giving a series of entertainments. Generally, the enterprise encountered disappointing support, particularly from the large centres. Nevertheless, though disappointed in our efforts, we are not in the least discouraged, but in fact are most determined to secure the necessary funds, though it takes us several years to acquire them. Had it not been for an unjust report in a Christchurch newspaper I would not have su gg € sted journalising the ungenerous attitude tendered to us. I regret having to submit particulars relating to our experience in the capital city of Canterbury—an experience which henceforth will be kept as a memorial and a historical one in the annals of Ratana’s mission, as it shall be compiled in a volume about to be completed. The narrative enunciated was not only detrimental to the mission, but was an obvious affront to the Natives, which I fail to comprehend. For such unwarranted publication, the Maori elements have tolerated humiliation long enough, being subjected to plebian pakehas* continuous disparagement to sustain the cudgel of humiliation long enough, being subjected to plebian pakehas’ continuous disparagement to sustain tho cudgel of himiliation. One wonders whether the scribe regards his publication as a jest or a casual reference Nevertheless, it created a pesky atmosphere to Ratana, who had tolerated so much for the pakehas’ suffering elements. Christchurch, the pride of southern capital cities, with its stately edifices, wealth and grandeur, and its religious elements, not only disregarded our efforts, and contributed only a paltry fifteen pounds for two nights’ entertainments, but cast a slur on those boys and girls who voluntarily rendered their services for the welfare of the Maori people in general. Luke 9-5, * And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of that city shake off the dust from your feet for testimony against them.’ ” Ratana is to have record gathering this Christmas. Already the natives are pouring in to Wanganui, and there is a big demand, for stores to feed the multitude. Pigs of the Captain Cook breed from up the river will form an important part on the menu.