From time to time the magazine and the Federation office receive letters about Grey Power’s political stance.
Some members have questioned the apparent contradiction that the Federation magazine contains articles from different political parties despite our perceived stance as being ‘apolitical.’
After discussion, and a bit of research, the Federation has come to the conclusion that the definitions of ‘apolitical,’ and even ‘non-political’ are not really appropriate for GPF.
Therefore, the Board has agreed we should universally adopt the term ‘non-partisan” with respect to political parties.
To explain:
Apolitical means: not interested or involved in politics. Clearly this is not the position of GP as our advocacy role means we lobby politicians from all parties on a wide range of issues affecting New Zealand seniors and are interested in their views and reactions.
Non-Political means: not relating to or motivated by politics. (This also is incorrect for GP)
Non-Partisan means: not biased or partisan, especially towards any particular political group. This better represents the position that GP holds.
All parties are notified of GP’s parliamentary visits and items being presented however, we can only meet with those who have an interest in any one particular matter or who are available at the time of our visits.
Where appropriate we also give all parties an opportunity to present their points of view on various advocacy matters so members can draw their own conclusions without being influenced by the Federation.
Some take up the opportunity; some do not.
Hopefully this will clarify Grey Power’s ‘non-partisan’ position.
