Inequality: A New Zealand Crisis

Dear Friends, I’m writing to let you know about a new BWB project, on an issue of growing significance for New Zealand. As a recent article in the New Zealand Herald set out starkly, the gap between the rich and the rest has reached its highest level since records began 30 years ago. This widening divide is an increasing source of concern across New Zealand. Next year BWB will publish Inequality: A New Zealand Crisis, edited by journalist Max Rashbrooke, featuring contributions from distinguished authors including Jonathan Boston, Colin James, Paul Dalziel, Tapu Misa, Linda Tuhiwai Smith, Ganesh Nana, Robert Wade and others. Before and after publication, BWB is arranging events and forums to spark debate on this crucial issue. They begin at Te Papa, with two talks in September and October. The first, at 6.30pm on Thursday, 13 September, looks at why inequality poses such a great threat to our society, economy and collective well-being. The second, on Thursday, 4 October, will look at ways of closing the income divide. More details here. Max Rashbrooke will also be writing regularly about inequality, and sending out a weekly email to keep people abreast of the debate and our progress on the book. You can sign up for the email here. We think this is one of the most important issues that New Zealand faces today, and hope you will find these discussions interesting. Regards,                   Forums for the Future: Between Rich and Poor Te Papa, Soundings Theatre September 13, 6.30pm, Free entry Forums for the Future: Between Rich and Poor Te Papa, October 4 Details to follow