Ruth Gerzon, MNZM

I worry about the rates rises and hope these are as low as possible in these straitened times. But let's give Whakatāne District Council praise when it is due, and I am thrilled by a recent new policy (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) that passed with unanimous support from our councillors.

This outlines the council's commitment to fostering a sense of belonging, ensuring marginalised and minority communities are included in decision-making, and building relationships based on empathy, compassion and respect.

Wow. What a blessing when the United States is busy cancelling such policies and our deputy prime minister Winston Peters says such policies are “woke”.

If being “woke” means being respectful to all people in our gloriously diverse communities then count me in.