21 Comments
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Sarah Melville's avatar

I wasn't there either, Anna, but like you I stand with those families, and yours.

And those principled librarians - they know a thing or two about reading people, it is they who are the authentic guardians of safe, incorruptible community space.

kia kaha.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

That phrase, incorruptible community space, is just beautiful.

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Mountain Tūī's avatar

This brought tears to my eyes. Thank you for sharing your voice with us.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

Your work is courageous and special. Keep going.

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Mountain Tūī's avatar

Thank you Anna; coming from you, that means a lot.

Tui

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Em's avatar

Fantastic, thank you. I can't do constructive (let alone creative) things with my rage the way you do, but I watch and learn. More strength to your arm.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

Such a mix of emotions here - I feel you, e hoa.

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Susan B Hadley's avatar

Thank you for mentioning the bravery of the library staff Anna. A very well crafted piece. If only the minds and hearts of these thugs could open to this.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

The bravery really affects me. I keep coming back to it, and I hope it's the thing we all remember.

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MsP's avatar

Love love love this piece. Thank you. It is wonderful and says it all. Aroha nui

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Anna McMartin's avatar

Aroha right back - it's what we need right now. ❤️

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Anna Mahoney's avatar

Wonderful, powerful words, Anna. Thank you.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

Appreciate that, friend. 🙂

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Rebecca Sinclair's avatar

All the yeses!!! Beautiful ferocity!

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Anna McMartin's avatar

That turn of phrase made me smile!

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Cheryl Johnstone's avatar

Just wonderful piece of writing Anna. I wasn't there but am just furious that these thugs are appearing to get away with this behavior. I also thought that Chris Hipkins statement in response was very good.

I'm encouraged that there appears to be little support for the so called men.

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Anna McMartin's avatar

The impunity is bizarre, and had been going on for years. I get a sense people's patience is running out.

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DiVert's avatar

Well said. Those poor families and librarians - libraries are supposed to be a safe place. This is desecration

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Anna McMartin's avatar

Desecration is exactly the word - mocking things that are beautiful. Fuck them.

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rainbow brute's avatar

Chef's kiss Anna! Thank you for bringing the focus to library staff - you're so right, that's where the hope is

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Anna McMartin's avatar

The more I reflect on it, the more I feel moved by what they had the courage to do.

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