Being woke doesn’t make violence okay
Simon O’Connor writes:
When I think of the various protest, or activist, movements of late one deeply troubling observation is becoming abundantly clear – there are those in New Zealand who genuinely believe that violence is acceptable when it comes to their cause. The classic, ‘the end justifies the means’.
This is the belief of zealots, fundamentalists, and of course, terrorists. Such people and groups are so morally certain of their position that they consequently feel enabled to act against all and any who oppose them. Those who disagree with them are so wrong, so in error, that removing them by force is appropriate. Naturally, this is a mindset at odds with a properly functioning democracy. …
More locally in the Pacific, we see the same justifications arising with the violence now occurring in New Caledonia. Activists here in New Zealand are saying that the violence, looting, and intimidation are ok because it is rebellion against a colonial power. Put aside the complete inaccuracy of such statements, because the situation again simply illustrates that there are New Zealanders who think violence is ok.
Right here at home, last year, we had the violent protests in Albert Park. A few days back I met one of the women assaulted, Judith. She was punched multiple times and yet there are still those here that believe the violent suppression of speech was acceptable. Her and others view was supposedly so wrong, that violence was seen as the right response by those protesting. Mainstream media too sadly played it’s part in all of this, encouraging the protest and consequently diminishing what occurred. Implicitly, some commentators reinforced that violence was an acceptable response to this group of women seeking to meet and talk.
Ultimately, we all hold strong views on various matters. But for most of us, our convictions on such matters manifest in robust discussion, debate, or the pursuit of legislative change. We do not, and never will, turn to violence.
Violence can only be justified if the Government is non-democratic and repressive.