Stand up for Te Tiriti: Christian Perspectives on the Treaty Principles Bill.

Sign up to gather submissions in your faith community.

From 18 November, the government will introduce a Treaty Principles Bill that would undermine Māori rights under Te Tiriti and destabilise our relationships even further.

Even if the bill never becomes law, the conversations about it will influence how many people view the Treaty. You can help to ensure the conversation is truthful and compassionate.

Common Grace Aotearoa invites you to gather with your faith community or with a group of friends to learn what the bill proposes, why many people are deeply concerned, and how you can have your say. We'll provide all the resources you need to speak up with a gracious and prophetic voice to defend the integrity of Te Tiriti.

The Treaty Principles Bill will go to first reading on Thursday 21 November, 2024, then to Select Committee for the public to have their say. We are encouraging people to gather submissions if they can between Monday 25 November and Sunday 14 December.

There are two options available to do this:

• OPTION 1: Run a 90-minute workshop. Gather for a 90-minute video workshop that includes:

  • a refresher on what Te Tiriti o Waitangi says

  • an introduction to 'Treaty Principles'

  • An outline of what the Treaty Principles Bill proposes and how we believe it does not align with Te Tiriti

  • How to have your say.

  • The workshop also includes time for people to write their own submission using our submission guide.

• OPTION 2: Gather submissions at a Sunday service: Use our 5-minute video and submission guide, and invite your faith community to make a submission during or after a Sunday service.