Your Student Magazine LUSA Elections Meet the 2021 LUSA Executive Candidates
Issue Six August/Ä€kuhata
New Zealand General Election
Delving into the Cannabis Referendum and End of Life Choice Act to bring you unbiased perspectives
RAM Magazine Lincoln University Students’ Association Email: media@lusa.org.nz lusa.org.nz/RAM
RAM | Issue Six
Contents. Words from the President
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2021 Exec Election Candidates
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Beaver on the Cannabis Referendum
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The Hows and Whys of Voting in the New Zealand General Election
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Yes2020: An Introduction to Yes2020
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A Positive Look at the Cannabis Referendum
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Why I'm Against Weed
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Talk of the Town: Euthanasia
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WHAT’S IN THIS ISSUE
2020 LUSA Exec 05
End of Life Choice 33
Account running on empty and been stung with a niggly bill? The Financial Assistance Fund (formally the Hardship Fund) is here to support your unexpected financial woes like the dentist bill you just received or your cars blown out tire. For more info or to apply lusa.org.nz 3
Sam Blackmore FROM YOUR PRESIDENT
Well, what a time to be alive! The great curve crusher Dr Ashley Bloomfield has become, in my opinion, the greatest man ever to wear the #7 on a rugby pitch. The other Crusher has had a shaky start to her new job. Iain Lees Galloway showed us the true meaning of being the Minister for Workplace Relations. And I bloody hope that we can have at least one week go by without another case of a disgraced Member of Parliament before the election! In saying that, the general election is looming, September 19th is the day! So make sure you enrol to vote! It is suuuuper easy, just jump onto elections.org.nz and it take about 5 minutes. There are also two referendums at this year’s election too, and in this RAM we have a bit of info on these to get you thinking about the choice you have to make. In the next issue we are going to be sharing info about the candidates that are standing in the Selwyn Electorate and some of the policies that each of the parties so keep tuned for that! LUSAs elections are really close as well, so make sure that you take a peek at the candidates and have a chat if you see them around campus. They are the ones who will be representing you for the next year, so make sure you know who you are voting for! Until next time whÄ nau, Sam
FROM THE EDITOR
It probably feels like you are being asked to vote left right and centre as of late and between the LUSA Exec Elections, Referendums and the NZ General Election, 4
there really is a lot of voting to be done. Aside from voting, the Garden Party line up was announced last week and tickets are flying out the door!
RAM | Issue Six
Max Lichtenstein
Gregory Flemming
Kia ora te whānau! Ke te pehea kotou?
Kia ora koutou!
This semester seems to be flying by! Tests and assignments are coming up fast and mid-term break is coming up even faster!
We are now settling into Semester two here on campus and isn’t it nice to be back! The new Forbes space is so lovely, and even the sun has made a couple of appearances! One of my favourite parts is the array of plants we have around! I can’t help but get the ‘Jurassic Park’ theme song in my head each time I walk to the toastie machines. You can’t beat that dinosaur kind of happiness.
Vice-President
If you’re keen to keep yourself warm over Winter try and make the most of Grounded’s $5 lunch deals! Different meal each day of the week but a cheap and easy way to keep yourself sustained while studying! Now that Covid-19 is well behind us and we’re well back into the swing of this here’s a rundown on somethings the Exec and myself have been working on so that you can maximise the benefits of your student service fee: - L ooking into subsidised Metro cards for Public Transport - Working on a safer pedestrian crossing on Springs Rd - Organising a political candidates debate (Details TBA) - G etting better lighting around Campus to make it safer in the dark - Secure bike storage on Campus - B etter education for students around utilising bus transport So there’s a fair bit going on at the moment, as always if you have any questions or qualms reach out! Ngā mihi manaakitanga Max
Secretary
How about Re-O week?! I hope you were all able to get amongst the madness of clubs and market day, this was a highlight for me, even if it resulted in having to write a BBQ safety policy. It turns out secretaries can’t be trusted with cleaning the aftermath of a good ole’ sausage sizzle. Burnt napkin anyone? Of my favourite events that I helped out with was quiz night! And that Moo of was hilarious! The games saw each team getting out of their comfort zone and having a laugh, and to be fair; you can’t get much better than that… especially in our brand new Forbes space! I hope everyone is settling back in and enjoying their new courses for the semester. Don’t forget to organise yourselves and keep on top of things, and of course, go to class! Even though this year hasn’t turned out as expected, we can still finish on a high! Also… LUSA election nominations are opening so get your forms in and don’t forget to vote! Ngā mihi, Your secretary, Gregory
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Barbera Forster
Sarah Visser
The first week back has been and gone and sitting in a lecture in a class is still better than sitting in front of a zoom screen.
Kei te pēhea koe? How are you?
General Rep
The Re-O week events were just a taste of what the rest of the year has to offer, Garden party is in the sights and so is Grad ball but the big events are not just what is on offer. The events run by clubs are one of the best ways to meet like-minded people and create a new social circle whilst taking part in activities put on for you. If you are feeling like you are not getting the most out of the student experience then go for a LUSA role, make a change when you have the opportunity, and bring up your ideas for improvement. This is the semester to enjoy the fact we are all back on campus and have an awesome new student space.
General Rep
Kei te harikoa au! I’m happy! Bula everyone! My happiness bucket is overflowing since being back on campus with all of you! <3 I just want to encourage you to make the most of getting working experience, volunteering and applying for scholarships, and summer working opportunities on Careerhub or Student Job Search, NOW! Before the business of term 2 approaches. Join uni clubs, plant some trees, and vote in the LUSA Exec Elections! Jeremiah 29: 11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” Be bold and courageous. Let your light shine! Make the most of talking to the people around you, you never know how much a simple conversation will have a positive impact on another person’s life.
I mean spending over half the time deciding which colour I should code each course, because yes, that’s important. But what is more important is getting your life organized so you never miss a deadline, and I cannot stress this enough.
Kate Lambarth General Rep
Hello all you hard working, yaldy frolicking folk. Only a few weeks in and the assignments are already flowing. How bloody joyous right? There is nothing more I like that getting my hungover ass out of bed, only to submit some of the greatest work of all time. But please, that ain’t the right way to do things, so don’t take too many leaves out of my book. I’ve just started making proper timetables to get my shit sorted. And when I mean proper timetables, 6
What I have also done is put all deadlines and mid semester break times in my phone calendar, this is the handiest thing EVER. Not to toot my own horn or anything, but if Karen saw how organized I was, I’d have her vote for mayor. If you want to be super over the top, write your deadlines so it says they are due two days before they actually are. You’ll make yourself more free and less stressed, and everyone who knows me, knows how stress is not my thing. So like the old fire wise adverts, let’s sing this together… “C’mon guys, get organised”.
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Balaji Poobalamurugan Leksshman International Rep Kia ora! The LUSA is excited to welcome you to our peaceful and diverse University. My name is Balaji Leksshman and I’m your International Representative for LUSA 2020. I’m doing my Postgraduate diploma in applied science. A personal thought of mine is the quality of your life is determined by the people you hang out with, and if you surround yourself with diverse characters, you will have experiences and gain a perspective you could have never imagined. With the increase in international students from all over the world, the LUSA understands how important you are in helping to shape Lincoln University and New Zealand. We are working incredibly hard to make sure your life here is an unforgettable and invaluable experience filled with opportunities and friendships. The LUSA is here to help you, whether it is through our representation of students, our advocacy and wellbeing services and all the student events at LU. Throughout this year I will have a strong focus on the international student’s community relations and looking forward to bring you new events. Just a friendly reminder that LUSA is conducting election for LUSA Exec 2021. Feel free to know about the election in our LUSA website.
Zoe Arts
Postgrad Rep Exciting things are happening in the next couple weeks for postgrads, make sure to check out the new postgrad spaces on the first floor of Forbes they should be opening very soon. These spaces are for all postgrad students, no pesky undergrads, and include a social space and quiet workspace as well as access to a brand-new kitchen. Also, on the first Wednesday of every month LUSA will be putting on free food for all postgrads, how sweet is that?! And again, no annoying uneducated undergrads to get in our way. This also means we can eat our cake and drink our tea with our pinkies in the air to assert our dominance. Ok, back to my first paragraph, just because I feel like being unnecessarily confusing today, our new post grad space will have games! So come on upstairs and I will personally verse you in a quick game of monopoly deal, bring it, my real estate game is pretty hardcore, and I will find a way to steal your cake if you even think about taking away my park lane and Mayfair. If you may, bring some glasses to protect yourself from my laser pointing glare. They don’t call me poker face Polly for no reason. On a final note, don’t forget vote for your new LUSA Exec!
If you have any questions or need any help, get in contact with the LUSA Team! I would love to hear from you too, so send me an email on balaji.poobalamuruganleksshman@lincolnuni.ac.nz All the best with your studies and enjoy your time at LU with LUSA.
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Vote! Midday 18th August â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5.00pm 21st August
How to vote: 1. Open your uni email 2. Open the email from LUSA* 3. Take 5 mins to cast your vote 4. Done * you might need to check your spam/ clutter folder
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RAM | Issue Six
I am a third year student and Lincoln University and am very passionate about giving back to the students and staff. My hobbies include, piano, tennis and sewing. But most of all, socialising and meeting new people. It is important for me to be able to connect with anyone on a professional or personal level, so in this case, I rate my social and communication skills highly and aa as important part of my own personal development. My passions include, music, event hosting and the RAM magazine. I believe that the RAM magazine already has a great following from staff and students, but would really benefit from being hugely student based which would include more opinion pages, columns or even fun games etc. I would really love to work alongside fellow LUSA general reps and the whole LUSA committee. I am also a big fan of clubs and all that they do for the university, so any part I can help with or be a part of would be honourable. I am very excited to be applying for the role of president for LUSA. I have been interested in this position for a couple of years, and after joining the exec team later this year, I was able to learn and meet new people which helped me gain a better understanding of LUSA and the importance of the presidential role here at Lincoln University. I consider myself very organised, with impeccable communication skills. I enjoy challenging myself with new skills and learning to understand other people and their positions. What I really enjoy is public speaking and drawing in a crowd. I find public speaking comes to me very naturally and I enjoy bonding with a crowd. I find light humor can make an audience feel more comfortable although this does not influence too harshly on serious issues. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to know your crowd and understand the appropriateness. Whilst I am not known as a very serious person, I pride myself on being able to put my focus on issues when needed and love the challenge of problem solving. One of my passions is fun and music, I believe music can help people relax, especially in times of stress. I strongly think that more music and arts could be brought into Lincoln University as a wellbeing getaway, there are many studies into how this can help and improve
2021 Executive Candidates
Kate Lambarth for PRESIDENT
the livelihood of people, and as a student representative, I think this would be more helpful in bringing more community spirit into Lincoln. If I were to become president, I would put a huge amount of focus on creating a more enjoyable experience for the students. I am interested in helping out all the clubs with a keen eye on TA. I have really looked up to the past presidents and how they have managed to get through some tough times we have faced in Christchurch over the last couple of years. There sure are some big shoes to fill! But I believe they have done an immense amount of work to build a strong foundation for LUSA both through financial difficulties and unforeseen bad circumstances. Because this foundation has been built so strong, I would like to give more focus on student wellbeing and the feel of community. I believe Lincoln is a strong community, but I would love for everyone to feel more of a family here, so they have a chance to build new relationships that they may have not have necessarily made if the chance wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t given. I firmly believe that university is some of the most exciting and rewarding times of your life, and I would love to help, encourage and be part of it. Woohoooo for elections! Kate Lambarth
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Gregory Flemming for PRESIDENT
Ki ora! I’m Gregory, in my final year of accounting and finance, running for LUSA President for 2021 alongside Lincoln Roper for Vice-President. Thoroughly enjoying my time here at Lincoln, I want to make your uni experience even better! Reasons to vote for me: - S trong leadership and advocacy – Keeping students as the #1 priority! - S trategic financial management – So we can continue to run Garden Party, free food, and continue LUSA’s awesome mahi. - D iversify revenue streams – Focus on growing LUSA’s commercial revenue streams, to reduce sole reliance on the student levy. - R einstate the gun locker at Lincoln University – Safely catering for students who enjoy the outdoors. Policy in detail: - S trong leadership is an essential component of governance. Being Secretary of LUSA in 2020 has allowed me to gain institutional knowledge into how LUSA operates. As President, I will continue to advocate for you to make sure Lincoln University continues to place students at the centre of what they do. Already being aware of students’ many needs and concerns, I will fight for a harmonious working relationship between students and the University. This especially includes increasing collaboration with Postgrads and Te Awhioraki. - S trategic financial management is essential for financial stability. This will allow LUSA to continue putting on awesome events, like Winter Ball, Garden party, free food and club grants. With unexpected events like COVID-19 and a national lockdown, we have seen a drop in student enrolments. This has affected our levy, which we rely on as our primary revenue stream. I aim to use my accounting and finance background, as well as my experience as a treasurer to ensure LUSA stays financially stable through uncertain economic times. 10
- D iversification of LUSA’s revenue streams will be vital to LUSA’s long-term financial prosperity. I aim to collaborate with the General Manager of LUSA to develop a portfolio of potential investments. It is vital that the one-off insurance pay-out for the student union building is invested well. - A t Lincoln University, many students want to make the most of the hunting opportunities in our fantastic backyard. For this reason, I will work with Lincoln University to reinstate the gun safe on campus so that students can store their firearms safely. I believe I am your best candidate for President. If elected, I will be passionate about enhancing your student experience and creating great memories! Cheers, Gregory Fleming
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Mishael Coulter for VICE-PRESIDENT
Kia Ora!
Ko Moehau te maunga Ko Tīkapa te moana Ko Mataatua te waka Ko Hauturu tōku maunga Ko Manaia tōku awa Ko Ngāti Pukenga tōku iwi Ko Te Tawera tōku hapū Ko Wiremu tōku whānau Ko Mishael ahau
My name is Lincoln, and I am running for LUSA VicePresident for 2021 alongside Gregory Fleming for President. Finishing off a Bachelor of Agribusiness and Food Marketing, I will begin postgrad in 2021. I have loved my time here at Lincoln and wish to pay it forward! Reasons to vote for me: - Strong leadership and advocacy – Keeping students as the #1 priority! - Strategic financial management – So we can continue LUSA's awesome mahi. - Diversify revenue streams – Focus on growing LUSA’s commercial revenue streams, to reduce reliance on the student levy. - Reinstate the gun locker at Lincoln University – catering for students who enjoy the outdoors. Explained in detail: - Strong leadership: Servant leadership is vital to achieving goals. As a LU Future Leader Scholar and Future Leader Vice-Chairman, I bring the experience needed for effective leadership and the ability to set a positive culture. As Vice-President, I will advocate for you to ensure that students remain the university’s priority. - Strategic financial management is critical moving forward. Positioning LUSA in a stable position will enable them to continue facilitating events. As 2020 has been challenging, having strong governance with the right people will set up LUSA for both stability and growth. - Diversification of LUSA’s revenue streams will be essential to LUSA’s success. There’s an opportunity for collaboration between the university and students to promote an entrepreneurial friendly campus. As a member of the student-led investment committee, Momentum, I can help better position LUSA’s financial future. - I love the outdoors, and I know many students who share my passion feel the pressures of not having access to adequate firearm storage. I will strive to reinstate the Lincoln University firearm safe on campus.
2021 Executive Candidates
Lincoln Roper for VICE-PRESIDENT
Pronouns: she/her Kia ora koutou! I came to Lincoln to study a Bachelor of Environmental Policy and Planning, but I didn’t expect for all the rest of the experiences that have come my way! I thought I would study, graduate, and leave, and failed to anticipate exactly how much I would enjoy getting involved in student led initiatives. Outside of uni, I like to read, go for long walks, and procrasti-binge Netflix (don’t tell me you’re not doing it too). I’ve also recently taken up painting, which I’m not very good at but I enjoy anyway, and I’d love to have a go with the Pottery Club sometime. Policy statement: While I haven’t stood in the LUSA elections before, I have been involved with Te Awhioraki since my first week here and so governance and advocacy aren’t new to me. My experiences advocating for tauira Māori with TA have shown me how important those roles are and inspired me to put my name forward to advocate for the wider student body with LUSA. If elected to this position, my focus would be on continuing LUSA’s strong history of providing essential student services and quality events on campus. As anyone who knows me will tell you, I organise everything to within an inch of its life, so I’m confident that I am well suited to represent students in this role. What it comes down to though, is you guys(and gals and non-binary!)- if you come to me with an idea or something you want to see happen for a better university experience, I’m committed to doing the mahi to support you.
Vote Lincoln for Vice-President 2021, it’ll be a fantastic year! Thanks, Lincoln Roper 11
Johanna Cao for SECRETARY
Laura Muckle for GENERAL REP
Jay Mckendry for GENERAL REP
I am a current third year at Lincoln University studying towards a B.V&O. People generally consider me a kind person who is either always baking or looking for animals to cuddle with. I may not be the most outgoing person but if I am given the opportunity to take on the secretary position, I would like to use it as not only a way to help with my demeanour but also to connect fully with the current and new students at Lincoln.
I’m currently a third-year student studying a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Agriculture and Environmental Management. Ever since starting at Lincoln, I have always felt a sense of community that I am incredibly grateful to be part of. My interests include netball, spending time with family and friends, and getting behind the mighty Crusaders!
I am currently in my third year at Lincoln University, studying Food Science with a focus on plant breeding and genetics. While I am going into my master’s degree next year, I would love to be given the opportunity to work as a general representative. If given such an opportunity, I want to learn from and connect with students of all backgrounds and levels.
As a General Rep, I would love to help out with clubs and events. I have been an attendee to many amazing events over the last few years and what better way to be a part of them than to help out! With contributing to events, I also think giving support to the clubs around campus is important, and I feel it would bring more student involvement within the Lincoln University community.
A big focus for me is creating a campus which includes all through respect and understanding; furthering student connections and engagement with both the university and each other. Student engagement is a massive part of my life at campus, with my work at the Library front desk, as a PASS leader and working with the Wellbeing team; it is through these roles and through general rep, that I want to further commit to fully optimising what studying at Lincoln really means for people. If you have any ideas of things that you want to see, activities you’d love to run, or just want to have a yarn about something feel free to talk to me. It will be a huge honour to take on this role and strive for an even greater Lincoln.
I would aim for an equal and accepting campus by working closely with the other executive members to produce new ideas to have a more open campus. As someone who has faced discrimination and bullying solely based on both gender and ethnicity, I believe that it is important to have an environment that is welcoming and feels safe for both students and staff no matter their background. I may work behind the scenes, but if you see me around and need any help feel free to talk to me and I’ll try my best to offer some advice or point you in the right direction to fulfil the part. Also, let’s get dogs (and any other animals) permitted back on campus!
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One of my passions is helping the environment, and by being a General Rep I would love to bring in some more ideas of how we can make the reputation of Lincoln as green as it can be. I’ve heard around the town that there are now edible straws, how cool it that! I would be honoured to have the opportunity to work hard to support the student’s association at Lincoln University.
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Although our time studying at this campus is short, the memories we make here are the ones we will remember for a lifetime. As your Wellbeing and Welfare rep, I would continue building upon the work that has already been established in culminating safe and positive experiences and bring through the skills I have gained working closely with the wellbeing department as a Respectfully Lincoln Facilitator, and current SPACE president. I will liaise on projects that bring support to every student in our community. As your wellbeing rep, I would love to the opportunity to continue working with the wellbeing team, enhance the social awareness and advocacy around mental health, wellbeing, and diversity by representing you as your next 2021 general representative.
I am a third-year B.Ag Sci student who grew up in China. A little bit about myself — I love animals, being outdoors, and of course, spinning some yarns with people bilingually! I also like exploring different countries and making friends from all over the world. My OE at Colorado last year offered me an excellent opportunity to meet new mates. Tramping to 14ers (for people who don’t know, a 14er is a mountain peak that is 14,000 or more feet above the sea level), tasting the best chocolate chip cookies in NYC, a night out to Broadway theatre…there are a heap of precious moments I spent with all the lovely people. Are you keen to be more engaged in multicultural activities? I want to be the person to facilitate opportunities for cultural diversity on campus!!
Send your application to amy.cradock@lincoln.ac.nz before midday Friday 14th August!
Fostering positive experiences and ensuring that all students enjoy their time while studying at Lincoln is something, I am incredibly passionate and enthusiastic about. My mum would describe me as a caring and approachable young man with the loudest laugh in the room, which is true — thanks mum.
Kia ora, good day, ni hao!
POST GRAD REPRESENTATIVE NOMINATION PERIOD EXTENDED.
Hi, my name is Rob Earl, I am a second-year student studying Environment and Society — Water Management and I am running for the General Representative position on LUSA 2021.
Erin Cheng for INTERNATIONAL REP
2021 Executive Candidates
Rob Earl for GENERAL REP
Download your application form from our website:
lusa.org.nz/elections 13
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gardenparty.org.nz
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Beavers Banter
, BEAVER S CANNABIS BANTER. Welcome back all you cool beavs and beavetts. Light your spliffs because I think I heard someone say REFFFFFARENDUM. Goddamnit, I love me a good reffy. And honestly, is there anything better to divide a nation than the devil’s lettuce?! I thinketh not. I know I don’t just speak for myself here when I say that watching the clash of Karen’s and stoners is going to be the peak of my 2020. I will put my cock on a block (the fowl type you dirty-minded mother fuckers) that there are going to be some outraged angle-bobbed-betties coming out the woodworks, or Ballentine’s, and I am here for it. With popcorn. Now I am quite neutral in my stance on the legalization of weed. Like, pretty chilled and unbothered if you’re picking up what I am putting down. Just kidding, Susan. For ‘legal and I don’t want my mum knowing’ reasons, I have changed the name of other people who do this sort of thing to “I”. Ahem. I have only frolicked in the good grass a hand full of times. Ok, twice. Which is why I remain neutral in my stance. Not enough first-hand experience I rate. What I do have however, are the times I tried a bit of the beloved bud. The first time I gave it a go, let’s say I was of a precious age and thought I was fuck cool. I was not. I felt nothing and I am almost 734.221 % sure it was grass. Actual grass…like lawn clippings. Back then though, you bet your sweet ass that little ole me convinced themselves that they needed eye drops and sunglasses because people would see my “red eyes”. What they saw was a moron.
I was actually cool when I tried it the second time. We were heading to the Phat Moon festival and flexing our kiwi ingenuity by hiding alcohol in the door panels of the car. Honestly, it is the kind of genius you hope your kids inherit from you. We nearly passed through security too if a door wasn’t slammed so hard and made the bottles clink. I was not willing to spend my life savings on two festival priced ciders so when a doobie was passed my way, I leaned into the festival ways and took a puff. But all it made me was hella hungry (and fat) because I ate the entire two-day food supply for the group. This is what they mean when they say drugs will make you lose friends. It is clear that I am not well versed in the reefer bible; my education is anchored deep in the sea of Diesel’s. Regardless of what is your choice of sin I think deep down we are all hoping this reffy is going to bring the heat. I am anticipating Brexit 2.0 kinda friction. Hotter than the carpet burns on Patricia’s knees after a night out. And I am ready. So, buckle up kids, grab a spliff, or a diesel…or both for those who don’t fear death, let’s share some popcorn and enjoy the show. And remember, if you want to light that slow-boat, don’t forget to vote. Beaver.
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THE 2020 GENERAL ELECTION AND REFERENDUMS
Enrol by 16 August to make voting quick and easy.
Do it online with your NZ driver licence or passport at vote.nz 0800 36 76 56
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The Whys and Hows of Voting in the 2020 New Zealand General Election [Lochie Bain]
Why should you vote?
How do you enrol to vote?
Listen here young buck, I know you're busy with your assignments, part time jobs and your, lets call them “laid back” Sundays. BUT do I have a job for you.
In order to vote in the election, you must be enrolled to vote.
I know you say that you’re not into politics when in reality you can’t get enough of Judith Collins or you low-key put pictures of Aunty Cinda up on your wall. My Job is simple, but are you up to the task? I want you to vote in the New Zealand General Election. Now why on earth should you vote? Let's be honest you’ve thought that you're the best thing since sliced bread, so why is your vote any different? It is not just a vote, it's your opinion, values and character. I also want you to earn the right to complain. If you don’t vote you cannot complain when flying cars are not invented in the next four years. Make sure you get along and vote on the 19th of September!
While this can be done on the day at voting stations, in to minimise time at the voting station it is easier to enrol before election day (19th September). Luckily for you, enrolling to vote is much easier than enrolling in your University papers! Simply visit www.vote.nz and click on the enrol tab. From there, you will be asked to provide details from one of three forms of ID: 1. Drivers Licence 2. New Zealand Passport 3. RealMe verified identity (what you use for Studylink login) From here it is an easy road to complete your enrolment, with questions such as your name and date of birth (difficult I know). The hardest part of this process is choosing your address, as this will determine the electorate you will vote in. There are 71 electorates in New Zealand, so it is likely your home address may be different from the address you use at University. The enrolment form says to “Use the address you consider to be your home”, so it is up to you if this is your home or university address. Overall, enrolment is an easy process, and will take no longer than 5 minutes of your precious time. Instead of scrolling Facebook next lecture, visit www.vote.nz to enrol and have your say this election!
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CANN
REFERE
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NABIS
ENDUM
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Introduction to YES2020:
We are a non-partisan student-led campaign (based at Victoria University of Wellington) with a mission to empower people with the skills and resources to have evidence-based conversations about weed. The Cannabis Referendum is steeped in misconception and racist half-truths, which is why it is important that we are having these important evidence-based discussions in the lead up to the referendum. Over 39% of ‘persuadable’ voters in the Abortion Referendum in Ireland were ultimately swayed by conversations they had with their friends and families. We believe that building on existing relationships, and connecting with our communities to have those difficult and uncomfortable conversations will be how we can achieve a YES outcome for the 2020 Cannabis Referendum. Key Steps to having a values-based discussion about cannabis: 1. Know your subject It’s important that you are prepared for any possible counter-arguments you may face. You can check out our instagram for some great infographics and posts breaking down the proposed Bill and exactly what a vote for yes will mean in Aotearoa. 2. Pick your moment Are you in the mood to talk? Are they? Make sure you catch them at a good time to ensure best effectiveness. 3. Start by listening Make sure you understand their concerns so you can respond effectively. You want to open the discussion to understand, not to convince. 4. Values based discussion Find a shared value! The more common ground the two of you have, the more likely you are to listen and try to understand where each other are coming from. From experience, older family members are primarily concerned with the health effects of legalising cannabis. Find a way to acknowledge their concern, while also advancing your view. “I agree that long-term cannabis use can be harmful, particularly for a developing brain. However, the
proposed legislation will allow for us to control the potency and quantity of cannabis being consumed. The fact is, up to 28.6% of 15-24 year olds are regularly using cannabis despite it being illegal–by legalising cannabis we can provide quality and safety controls to ensure that they can do so safely.” 5. Stay calm, polite, and keep it light. It’s never easy discussing topics you may disagree on and understanding or changed minds will never happen in hostile environments. If you find yourself getting frustrated you can always take a break and pick it up later. 6. Have a discussion, not an argument. Explore ideas together, don’t just tell them what to think. You want to build off one another with personal stories and facts. No one is ever convinced by another person simply asserting their opinion. 7. Encourage them to do their own research. It’s not your job to provide them with all of the facts, but you can point them in the right direction. Health not Handcuffs, the Drug Foundation, the Helen Clark Foundation, and the YES 2020 website all have information accessible to anyone. See our “About” page for more links. 8. Choose your most convincing arguments. The strongest overall point is that legalisation will reduce cannabis related harms. However, you can tailor this to whoever you’re having a conversation with. Talk to your Young-Nat pals about the economic benefits of cannabis, or talk about harmreduction to the Karen’s in your life. 9. People will likely care more if they know why they should. Are there any personal facts or stories about cannabis related harms you could share? And ultimately, reflect on your privilege. If you're Pākehā, it’s likely you’re using cannabis without legal repercussions. Māori and Pasifika people have never been so lucky. Having these difficult conversations is a simple use of privilege that can guide us towards a rehabilitative approach to drug policy. 23
There are just 8 weeks to run until the cannabis referendum on 19 September. While I’m cautiously optimistic that New Zealanders will vote ‘Yes’ to legal control of cannabis, it’s going to be a tough race and I’m in no way complacent — the polls show that we can’t afford to be. Voting preferences are split firmly by age, so it’s super important that students educate themselves on this issue and get out and vote. Recent polls show 63% of those aged 18-29 plan to vote yes to legal cannabis, whereas only 34% of those over 60 do. Older generations are far more likely to be enrolled and to turn up on voting day than young people. So unless you want to leave your grandparents to decide this one for you (I hope you don’t), you need to enrol and vote — and make sure your friends do, too. Cannabis is illegal in Aotearoa, yet anyone can buy it easily. This is not about creating a new market, or encouraging people to use - people are already using. And the biggest group of users? 15-24 yearolds, nearly a third of whom used cannabis last year, despite it being illegal. Young people under thirty are lumbered with nearly half of the several thousand cannabis convictions that are still handed out every year -and they are also the ones who have the most to lose in terms of lives and careers from those convictions. Māori also suffer under our current laws. They are 3 times more likely to get a cannabis conviction than non-Māori with the same level of cannabis use. That is simply shocking to me. Legalisation will mean fewer Māori coming into contact with the criminal justice system and fewer trapped in endless cycles of reconviction.
A Positive Look at the Cannabis Referendum. [Kali Mercier. Policy and Advocacy Manager, New Zealand Drug Foundation] 24
If New Zealanders vote ‘yes’, Police will instead be freed up to focus on serious crime. Each year, we spend almost $200 million on cannabis enforcement and convictions — I’m sure you will agree that this could be put to better use. Then there are the people who use cannabis therapeutically. The evidence is clear that cannabis can be an effective medicine for a range of conditions, including epilepsy, chronic pain and nausea from some cancer treatments.
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While medicinal cannabis is technically legal in New Zealand with a prescription, there are few products available and they are very expensive because they are not subsidised. Patients are still forced to source illicit products, putting them at risk of a conviction. Legal cannabis would mean easier access to a wider range of products, and would make prices more affordable. Patients will be able to access the medicine that works for them without fear of prosecution. The icing on the legal cake would be the estimated $490 million of new taxes that we can put towards health and education for all New Zealanders. A levy will be put aside specifically to fund cannabisrelated education, prevention and treatment. That money is currently going direct to the illicit market, un-taxed. With cannabis legal we can work towards specific public health and social outcomes — something that is simply impossible under prohibition. For example, we can impact use patterns by setting price limits, potency limits, rules around packaging, quality control, age limits and many more. Cannabis will continue to be illegal for those under 20 years of age. For those over 20, you’ll be able to buy it only in stand-alone licensed stores. You’ll be able to consume it at home or in a small number of licensed consumption spaces — but not on the street or in parks. You’ll be able to grow plants at home too, but no more than four plants per household. Legalisation means control. What we have now is anarchy and injustice. I encourage you to go and double check that you are enrolled to vote in the election (do it now). Most importantly, turn up on election day, and make sure all your friends do too. If you don’t, the older generation will literally be making the decision for you. This referendum is too important to leave to other people to decide — make sure your voice is heard.
Healthnothandcuffs.org.nz | OnOurTerms.org.nz | DrugFoundation.org.nz/policy-and-advocacy/vote-yes 25
, Why I m Against Weed. [Anonymous Student] OK everyone, this referendum is heating up, fast and I am ready to watch the show unfold. But firstly, I have some strong opinions to share with you as to why I am completely against this marijuana referendum going through. My first thought was, driving. New Zealand is already known infamously for all the drink driving, and the statistics are scary. So, in my opinion, why add another drug to the mix? I’m worried that people will start smoking and driving more, especially as there isn’t enough testing now for it as it is. And if they have to make more tests for it if this referendum goes through, then I rest my case. I have had people tell me that they can drive fine on weed. Yeah… righto. If weed had little effect on you, so little that you were so safe enough to drive, then you wouldn’t be so desperate for this referendum to go through in the first place.
that NZ already has a huge problem with mental health? I honestly feel sick about it. We don’t need a spike in this area right now, our suicide rates are some of the biggest in the world, and Jacinda didn’t put the money into it that she promised. So I’m sure you can all agree with me that this is a major issue that needs to be targeted ASAP. What is also happening in Canada is that the people who changed their careers to grow weed to the government regulations, are starting to lose their jobs. The weed just isn’t strong enough anymore. So goodbye regulation weed, hello black market. Family first have just come out with some of the worries that they are having, one of them seems quite scary. Gummy bear edibles. They are worried that these will be left around the house. Nek minute, all the toddlers are getting high. Cool guys… these kids are barely developed, and there is a risk that they might not even gain a fully developed brain? Speaking of brains… they want it to be legal for purchase at the age of 20. The male brain is not fully developed until the prime age of 25 and for females, this is 23. So basically, all you for fans, are saying that its ok to wreck the brain cells for a few years. The worlds IQ is already heading on a downspin, geez. Can’t wait for New Zealand to be full of delinquents.
Nek minute, all the toddlers are getting high. Cool guys...
My second thought is that, what is going to happen to the other drugs we already have a problem with here? There was a study done in Colorado a year after marijuana had been made legal, and it shows that the meth problem rose by 217%. That’s a shit load if you ask me. Turns out, if the drug becomes legal, it may not be as exciting anymore, so they go to something harder. Not only that, but all the gangs will lose money from not being able to sell their weed. So, what will they do? Enforce and try and sell harder drugs to regain their profit. Now, maybe my biggest concern. Has anyone done any research into what has happened in Canada in the last year? Their mental health system has gone into overflow, they are struggling to keep up with it. Can we please just emphasis the fact 26
Now I know that weed doesn’t always affect people in the same way. Some people can smoke it all their life and have no long-term effect. Emphasis on some. I have a family member who smoked a lot in the 90’s before it was full of all that extra crap and it has ruined his life. Maybe one of the reasons I’m so worried.
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END O
CHOIC
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OF LIFE
CE ACT
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Euthanasia. [Max Lichtenstein]
In this issue of Talk of the Town I thought I would go beyond student concerns and campus controversies. I thought I would jump on the political bandwagon, without getting political. This month I am tabling the idea around Euthanasia and more appropriately the End of Life Choice Act 2019. Parliament has already passed the Act but it will only become legislation if more than 50% of voters in the referendum vote ‘Yes’ – enter your only responsibility. All you have to do on September 19 is to VOTE! Up or down, left or right, yes or no – it doesn’t matter as long as you tick the box! You do have to make sure that you are informed so that you can make the best possible judgement based on the facts and your worldview — enter my job here today! So, what is ‘assisted dying’ exactly? In the Act it is defined as: - A person’s doctor or nurse giving them medication to relieve their suffering by bringing on death; or - The taking of medication by the person to relieve their suffering by bringing on death. FYI ‘medication’ refers to a lethal dose of the medication used for assisted dying. ‘Bringing on death’ sounds scary and not something that everyone may want or need. Correct, hence why the Act also outlines a strict eligibility criterion. Balancing actual needs with realistic requirements would be challenging especially each individual would have a unique case. The criterion provides for equitable eligibility. To be able to ask for assisted dying the person must: - B e aged 18 years or over - Be a citizen or permanent resident of Aotearoa New Zealand 32
- S uffer from a terminal illness that’s likely to end their life within 6 months - Have significant and ongoing decline physical capability - Experience unbearable suffering that cannot be eased - Be able to make an informed decision about assisted dying. The Act is clear that a person would not be eligible for assisted dying if the only reason they give is that they are suffering from a mental disorder or mental illness, or have a disability of any kind, or of advanced age. Furthermore, there is a process around who would be considered able to make an informed decision about assisted dying. Doctors and health practitioners also have a responsibility to ensure the choice is freely made and that the person is not forced into it. In the voting booth, you will be asked: Do you support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 coming into force? You can choose one of these two answers: - Y es, I support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 coming into force. - No, I do not support the End of Life Choice Act 2019 coming into force. Here are some of the facts presented in an impartial manner and I’ll close with a simple checklist to follow to ensure your vote counts! 1. Stay informed. Get more information at referendums.govt.nz 2. B e enrolled to vote/check your details at vote.nz/enrol 3. VOTE on Election Day
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The End of Life Choice Act Referendum September 2020 [Dr Mary Panko, President of the End-of-Life Choice Society]
How are you going to vote? Most people involved in tertiary education don’t give a passing thought to their own dying and death. Why would they? If the idea does pop up, most will dismiss it as morbid or gloomy. When you are young, hopefully you will be lucky enough to see your life stretching ahead into some endless future. There are other things to think about: relationships, exams, money, exams… The list goes on. But there are others who have no such luxury, because they are dying of a terminal illness. They may be old; they may be young; they are certainly not seeking death. Most are wanting to live, no matter how much they are suffering. For a percentage, there will come a day when all the treatments have been used — the chemo, the radiation, the surgery — and there is nothing left but a world of suffering. The medical profession has done its best — kept the person alive, given them hope and the opportunity to extend precious time with their families. Now, in those last days or weeks of life, this option has run out. Their world has closed down to nausea, vomiting faeces or drowning in their own lung fluid. The family watch — horrified, unable to do anything to help, and this horror is embedded into their memories for the rest of their lives, overwhelming all other images. A terrible death such as this lies in wait for about 6% of people. That means approximately 2,000 people each year die in New Zealand in this appalling manner. While palliative care can do so much, it cannot prevent all suffering. The only alternative at the moment is to terminally sedate people during their last 2 – 3 weeks of life so that they die from starvation and dehydration, but hopefully don’t know what’s happening to them. Why should a slow and druggedup death be morally okay, but providing a peaceful and conscious time to say goodbye be unacceptable?
for medically assisted dying. But for others, this can be the compassionate choice. Before the day comes to vote in the Referendum, if you are not sure about all the details or whether there are some hooks hiding in the small print, go to the referendum website referendums.govt.nz/endoflifechoice and then make an informed decision. Who would be eligible for assisted dying? The End of Life Choice Act 2019 states that to be able to ask for assisted dying, a person must meet ALL the following criteria. They must: • be aged 18 years or over • be a citizen or permanent resident of New Zealand • suffer from a terminal illness that's likely to end their life within 6 months • have significant and ongoing decline in physical capability • experience unbearable suffering that can't be eased • be able to make an informed decision about assisted dying A person would not be eligible to ask for assisted dying if the only reason they give is that they are suffering from a mental disorder or mental illness, or have a disability of any kind, or are of advanced age. If you feel undecided, let those who are terminally ill and suffering make their own decision. Support Choice at the End of Life — Vote YES on 19th September!
Now, with the passing of the End of Life Choice Act, we can see a peaceful alternative for the terminally ill who CHOOSE to ask for help. Of course, there are people who feel this is not the right course, so for them, the answer is straightforward — do not apply 33
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[illustrated by Tushar Phatak]
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[illustrated by Tushar Phatak]
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Aries
Taurus
Gemini
This week will bring disruption to your routine. Instead of letting it throw you off, view the shake-up as a blessing from the universe rather than an inconvenience and keep getting shit done.
You’ve been bottling yourself up more than Will Smith in the liveaction Aladdin movie, Taurus. This week you need to share your energy and thoughts with the world. People have been missing the fuck out of you lately. It’s time to bring your ideas back to the table.
We’ve been sweating buckets just watching how hard you’ve been working lately. We know you’ve been adding random shit to your to-do list to keep yourself busy. Take it easy this week. Sometimes taking time to rest and reset is exactly what you need.
March 21 – April 19
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April 20 – May 20
May 21 – June 20
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Cancer
Leo
Virgo
You are the architect of your own life. Lately, you’ve been waiting for others to make decisions for you. You’ve been putting things off telling yourself the timing just wasn’t right. Fuck that. The timing is right when you say it is, so make the timing right now.
This week is your time to step into the limelight. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you have to diminish your personality in order to fit in. Be the fierce bitch we know you to be. It is Leo season after all.
Stop putting up mile-high walls this week. You don’t want to seem emotional or vulnerable so instead you’ve been shutting down when people try to get close. This week start chipping away at the walls, share how you feel with at least one trusted friend. You’ll thank yourself for it.
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Let’s face it, the world is kind of a shit show. You’ve been slapping a smile on every day in an effort to grin and bear it. This week, let yourself experience anger. Channel your rage into a new project or creative outlet. Learn that your anger doesn't have the be the enemy, and expressing it in a healthy way can do you a world of good.
You’ve been waiting for the big pay off, and it’s all coming this week. Hellll yessss. The universe has not been ignoring the work you’ve put in. And what goes around, is finally coming around to you. Show up strong, give it all you got, and don’t settle for anything less.
We know it feels like you’re stuck on repeat. Every day feels the same and you’re determined to zoom through each one as quickly as possible. This week, however, try to be in the moment. Try to enjoy life in the slow lane, because the slow lane is the only one open baby.
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
You're in for a hella powerful week. Take advantage of this energy while it lasts. If there's something you need to do... do it now. Don't let tasks wait because there won't be a "better time". If you're able to get your shit done, you'll be celebrating with insane amounts of freedom later on.
You have so much to offer. Remember the best gifts don’t have to be bought. Give someone your time by helping them with a task or listening to their problems. Basically, just show the people in your life that you give a damn, and your generosity will be repaid.
Stop looking for validation in others. You’re cool as hell, but you keep looking to others for approval. Focus on finding that approval from within. Make a list of the things that make you great and don’t let yourself forget who you are.
June 21 – July 22
September 23 – October 22
December 22 – January 19
July 23 – August 22
October 23 – November 21
January 20 – February 18
August 23 – September 22
November 22 – December 21
February 19 – March 20
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Whether you’re a dirty rooster or relatively chaste, you’re still likely to come in contact with HPV. Take steps to help protect yourself from genital warts and HPV-related cancers with your free* HPV immunisation. Talk to Student Health today or visit bestshot.co.nz to find out more.
* GARDASIL® 9 is a prescription medicine, for females aged 9–45 years and males 9–26 years of age. It is a nine-valent recombinant human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. GARDASIL® 9 is indicated for 9–45 year-old females and 9–26 year-old males, for prevention of cervical, vulvar, vaginal, and anal cancer, precancerous or dysplastic lesions, genital warts or lesions, and infection caused by the HPV types in the vaccine. Each 0.5 mL dose contains the following HPV L1 Proteins by type: 6 (30 µg), 11 (40 µg), 16 (60 µg), 18 (40 µg), 31 (20 µg), 33 (20 µg), 45 (20 µg), 52 (20 µg), and 58 (20 µg). GARDASIL® 9 has risks and benefits, and should be used strictly as directed. Ask your doctor if GARDASIL® 9 is right for you. Tell your healthcare professional if you or your child have ever had an allergic reaction to any vaccine or to any of the listed ingredients for GARDASIL® 9, or if you or your child has a serious illness, blood disease, bleeding disorder, a high fever, or a weakened immune system (e.g. due to medicines, a genetic condition, or human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection). Common reactions are headache, fever, and injection-site pain, swelling, and redness. Fainting can occur. Allergic reactions are rare but serious. If you are worried by any side effects, see your doctor, pharmacist, or healthcare professional. Go to the nearest hospital if you experience wheezing, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing; or pinkish, itchy swellings and rash, especially on the face. Immunisation does not replace the need for regular cervical cancer screening. Additional product information and Consumer Medicine Information is available from www.medsafe.govt.nz (October 2019), and from Seqirus (NZ) Ltd, Auckland, on 0800 502 757. GARDASIL® 9 is funded for both males and females aged 9–26 years – normal charges will apply for other patients. Copyright © 2019 Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Whitehouse Station, NJ, USA. All Rights Reserved. NZ/GAR9/0120/0073a TAPS NA12097 INSIGHT 10219B.
