Background

During the National Digital Hui Jan 2019 we discussed our visions for XR in Aotearoa New Zealand. This was done in small groups at the start of the hui so we could get to know each other and identify common ground and direction for the following two days.

Group 1 Summary

Vision: Whatever happens we need to care for the planet and for each other. We want to live sustainably in a world that is inclusive of all species, where communities are run through participatory democracy and based on the principle of social justice.

Discussion: Global legislation, civilised, strong government, living sustainably, elevating voice of children.

Group 2 Summary

Vision: A sustainable economic system, where our government expresses urgency and determination, with an understanding of how our energy systems work and a realisation of what we’ve lost on the way. XR Aotearoa does what is necessary to make the transition happen in a way that works for our circumstances and contributes to worldwide change.

Shorter vision: XR would bring about awareness change in the public of our environment issues and by doing that would give a political mandate for sweeping changes towards a sustainable and just economic social system.

Group 3 Summary

Vision: A more equitable and peaceful world where people understand the interconnected nature of all life on earth.

Discussion: The world would be very different, with an emphasis on people not money. The whole system needs changing, breaking down hierarchies, making it beautiful for all humans, liveable for children all across the world, more equitable at heart, a life-based society including humans, where we all use our capabilities to focus on life developments. A celebration of diversity which is recognised as a source of strength. Use the Sustainable Development Goals. Increase ecological understanding: we’re dependant on a living world, it’s not a “nice to have”. We could have a more peaceful and less stressful world if we’re not in survival mode.

Group 4 Summary

Vision: A world where societies and biosphere diversity are resilient and in equilibrium, with each other and in themselves.

Discussion: We are looking for whole system change, it’s not just about the climate. If we solve the climate problems but don’t address anything else so that we are still out of equilibrium that’s not enough. We liked Greenpeace’s vision statement, but notice that it didn’t say anything about society; their vision would be achieved if humans vanished. There is a need for very deep social and political change for this wide-ranging change.

Group 5 Summary

Vision: See the first part of the climate declaration:

“We, the people of Aotearoa, commit to urgently transforming society to achieve climate stability for future generations. We will create a climate-safe Aotearoa, based on economic fairness, participatory democracy, respect for human rights and the intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi, where we live in harmony with Nature and with each other.”

Original notes