Despite an increase in those identifying themselves as Christians, Mid-Canterbury migrants are being discriminated against.
A new report, the Mid Canterbury Migrants and Newcomers report, found that racism is preventing some migrants from going about their daily lives and renting a home.
The Press reports one interviewee complaining of “feeling and seeing” racism.
“[We] are a minority and treated as such,” commented another interviewee.
Youth too complained of racism and bullying in schools; several students said they preferred to live in Christchurch because they were “treated as normal” there.
Ashburton Mayor Angus McKay is concerned by the report’s findings.
“There is no such need for that in a community such as Ashburton, he said.
“That’s why the report was done – to see if is was actually happening.
“It is, and now it’s up to the community to do its best to stop it from happening.”
The Mid Canterbury Migrants and Newcomers research was undertaken to assess progress on migrant settlement. The survey came as a result of 15 focus groups involving more than 100 participants from 47 nationalities to supplement work done in 2009.
Christian Ashburton
The Mid Canterbury Migrants and Newcomers report comes on the back of new census statistics revealing Ashburton is the most Christian place in Canterbury.
Around 70% of Ashburton people identify as Christian.
Rev Geoff Gray, of the St Augustine of Canterbury parish, said his congregation had grown by about 200 in the last few years.
Samoan, Pacific Island and Filipino immigrants had swelled congregations in Ashburton, he said.
Rev Gray said he adapted his sermons for the new congregation.
Sources