Dr David Lillis: Allegations of Racism in New Zealand Universities

In complex areas like the study of racial inequality, a fundamentalism has taken hold that discourages sound methodology and the use of reliable evidence about the roots of social problems. We are not talking about mere differences in interpretation of results, which are common. We are talking about mistakes so clear that they should cause research to be seriously questioned or even disregarded (Jindra and Sakamoto, 2023).

 

Executive Summary

In recent years we have heard many allegations of systemic bias and racism in various sectors, including education, health and indeed in the New Zealand workplace. We have also heard allegations of racism within our universities. It is asserted that it is particularly difficult for Māori and Pacific academics to find employment in the universities and, once within the system, to achieve competitive salaries and promotion into the professoriate. Unfortunately, on occasion such claims are advanced in conjunction with personal, sometimes vitriolic, attacks on colleagues and attempts to damage their careers.

Bud Jones: Racism in the Universities

Does spiritualism, religiosity and racism have a place?

First a little about my background and credentials.

After immigrating from America, I had service with the NZ Symphony Orchestra for 40 years and as Artist Teacher at Victoria University for 26 years 1990—2016.

I was awarded a QSM in 2013 for services to education at the high school and university level, including director for NZ National Youth groups, and also for environmental achievements.