Polynesian Panthers Activism
🏛️ Part 1: Understanding the Polynesian Panthers
1. When were the Polynesian Panthers formed?
2. The Polynesian Panthers were formed in response to which major issue affecting Pacific communities?
Housing shortages
Dawn Raids
School closures
Employment discrimination
3. Which of the following were methods used by the Polynesian Panthers? (Check all that apply)
Community patrols
Legal advocacy
Peaceful protests
Educational programmes
Media campaigns
👥 Part 2: Key Figures and Leadership
4. Match the key figures with their contributions to the Polynesian Panthers movement:
1. Will 'Ilolahia
2. Fred Schmidt
3. Melani Anae
4. Tigilau Ness
A. Co-founder and community organiser
B. Legal advocate and rights activist
C. Academic and historian of the movement
D. Youth leader and educator
5. Describe one way the Polynesian Panthers showed leadership in their community:
⚖️ Part 3: Dawn Raids and Resistance
6. Fill in the blanks about the Dawn Raids:
The Dawn Raids were police operations that targeted _____________ communities, particularly those from _____________ and _____________. These raids often occurred in the early _____________ and involved checking people's _____________ status. The Polynesian Panthers organised _____________ patrols to protect their communities and provided _____________ support to those affected.
7. Why were the Dawn Raids considered unfair by Pacific communities?
They only targeted Pacific peoples, not other overstayers
They happened at inconvenient times
They were too expensive for the government
They were not well organised
8. Explain how the Polynesian Panthers used peaceful resistance to challenge injustice:
🎨 Part 4: Creative Expression - Activism Messages
9. Design a poster slogan that the Polynesian Panthers might have used. Draw your poster design in the box below:
10. Write a short speech (3-4 sentences) that a Polynesian Panther leader might have given to inspire their community:
🌟 Part 5: Legacy and Modern Connections
11. Which of these values were important to the Polynesian Panthers? (Check all that apply)
Mana (power and dignity)
Whanaungatanga (relationships and community)
Equity and fairness
Cultural pride
Social justice
12. How do you think the Polynesian Panthers influenced activism in New Zealand today?
13. What is one lesson we can learn from the Polynesian Panthers about standing up for what is right?
14. If you could ask a Polynesian Panther member one question about their activism, what would it be?
🤔 Part 6: Reflection and Critical Thinking
15. Why is it important to learn about the Polynesian Panthers in New Zealand history?
16. Complete this sentence: "The Polynesian Panthers showed courage by..."
17. How can young people today follow the example of the Polynesian Panthers in their own communities?
