National Day of Reflection: remembering survivors of abuse in care
The New Zealand Government urges reflection on the National Day of Reflection to honour survivors of abuse in care, acknowledging ongoing impacts and the need for continued action.
The Government has called on New Zealanders to observe today’s National Day of Reflection, a day dedicated to remembering survivors of abuse, harm and neglect experienced while in State or faith-based care. Erica Stanford, the Lead Coordination Minister for the Government’s Response to the Royal Commission’s Report into Historical Abuse, emphasised that while a formal apology was delivered two years ago, its limitations in addressing survivors’ ongoing pain must be acknowledged.
Stanford highlighted the enduring effects of abuse on survivors’ lives, stressing that the harm continues to impact many individuals daily. She framed the day as an opportunity to honour survivors’ courage in sharing their experiences and to remember those who have passed without seeing justice or recognition.
The Minister underscored the importance of listening to survivors’ accounts, which have exposed a painful chapter in New Zealand’s history, and committing to ensure their stories are never forgotten. She also acknowledged those who did not live to witness their experiences being addressed, reaffirming their right to remembrance.
Stanford reiterated the Government’s responsibility to move beyond apologies, committing to learn from past failures and implement lasting changes that uphold dignity, safety and respect for all individuals in care.