THE OPEN FORUM.

Waiapu Church Gazette, Volume 36, Issue 6, 1 September 1945, Page 13

THE OPEN FORUM.

Ruatoria, via Gisborne, E.C., August 6, 1945. Sir,—' •' ( ; ■■ ■ " '" ■: , I read with dismay the article entitled "Maori Problems as Seen by a Teacher," m your July Gazette— the edition that has on its front page, "Blessed are the Peacemakers — for they shall be called the Children of God," and has as its first contribution a copy of a sermon preached m Christchurch Cathedral — "Preparation for Peace." I have lived for thirteen years amongst Maori people — happy years m which I have received sympathy, kindness and wonderful generosityj that I am sure would never have come from any other race. During those years I have heard discussions and read treatises by the dozen on "Problems/of the -Maori Race." Words! Words! Words! -.. When will this type of self-corn- 1 placent pakeha (who signs himself "Teacher") realise how terribly his own race is m need of uplift and leave the Maori alone. — I am, etc., M;. G. MEFFAN, Teacher, Manutohi Native School, Ruatoria. Note.— This letter has been slightlyabridged. The: welfare of the Maori race is a vast problem, being one jn. which there is a widespread desire to better their moral, physical and spiritual conditions. As to how an improved standard of conditions can be brought about is a matter that is open to many viewpoints. A critical analysis is frequently the basis for a sound construction. While destructive criticism is to be deplored, candid comment has frequently a 1 practical aspect, that while it might cause pain to the feelings of some, when the broad view is taken it can make a useful contribution. The article referred" to by the correspondent liad been previously considered by qualified men who are noted leaders of the Maori race. "The Gazette," recognising the importance of the subject, has devoted many columns m order that readers should have some appreciation of the scope of the investigations being made that .will, it is hoped, lead to a deserving standard of conditions that is desired by all interested m the Maori race. — Editor.