Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission is presenting Te Urunga Award to support inclusiveness for the first time at this year’s ASB Polyfest. The award will be presented to the cultural group displaying the most inclusive practice in a creative performance at the festival.

Te Urunga will promote the inclusion of students, both disabled and non-disabled, in such a way that each member of the group is valued for their contribution to the performance. The Commission will support schools in the lead -up to the event to develop inclusive practices by offering free workshops, guidance and support. Working inclusively will allow a diverse group of students the opportunity to work together to create a dynamic and creative cultural performance for the festival.

The winning group will receive a trophy, a workshop with well-known inclusive choreographer Suzanne Cowan and $500. All groups will receive a Te Urunga certificate for inclusiveness.

Disabled people are one of the most discriminated groups in our communities, particularly Māori and Pacific people. A recent Human Rights Commission report on disabled children’s access to education found barriers preventing full participation in education, sports and cultural extracurricular activities. Of particular concern,  Māori and Pacific disabled people are faced with further barriers making them  unable to realise their cultural rights and preventing them from participating fully in community life.

Each group must complete the online entry form and groups must include both disabled and non-disabled students.

Te Urunga Award Information sheet (Word 100Kb).