BY the PEOPLE, FOR the PEOPLE

Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address delivered in 1863 spoke about equality for all people. Every Tuesday evening in the suburb of Arataki (Mount Maunganui) this simple but still radical philosophy is put into action in the form of The Arataki Community Meal. Everyone is welcome at the community centre and no questions are asked, nor judgements made. The disabled, old, young, Māori, Pākehā, backpackers, skate park kids and sweaty rugby training members regularly turn up. The meal is free. The food is really good (I’ve had a meal) and some people at the meal often eat better there than at home. 
Jake, Tama, Tess and Tihema lead a team that is committed to restoring and developing relationships and connections with people. Barriers of prejudice and judgement do not exist in the centre. Homeless people are on the cooking team. They want to give and by doing so break down stereotypes. Jake, (a son in law) and a co-ordinator acknowledges that we are richer by helping others and in Jake’s words, “…is worth it.” 
This inclusive meal programme has been going for nearly 10 years and is a proven way of ‘loving your neighbour as yourself’.

POINTS TO PONDER
How equal are we in Aotearoa/New Zealand? It’s worth thinking about and then doing something.
There are many such programmes running around our beautiful country. Is there one near you?
Arohanui (lots of love) thanks and gratitude to all who help unconditionally and generously.


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