Kōrero for Change - Political and Democratic Processes

Welcome to the Kōrero for Change webinar series! Access Matters Aotearoa is facilitating courageous conversations about ableism in key areas of life where individuals in Aotearoa New Zealand face disabling experiences.

Our next kōrero in the series focuses on Political and Democratic Processes. We recognise the importance of examining how disabled people experience participation in our democracy - from enrolling and voting to accessing political information and engaging in public decision-making.

Too often, democratic systems fail to account for the access needs of disabled people. Barriers across voting processes, polling places, information formats, and civic participation can limit the ability to engage fully and independently. This can result in exclusion, reduced participation, and a system that does not fully reflect the voices of all citizens.

For democracy to be truly inclusive, it must be accessible by design, recognising diverse ways of understanding, communicating, and participating. This includes ensuring independent and secret voting, accessible information, and meaningful opportunities for disabled people to engage in political life.

Join us for this important kōrero as we explore how we can strengthen political and democratic processes in Aotearoa to be inclusive, equitable, and representative of everyone.

Date: 17 June 2026

Time: 9am to 11am

Where: Zoom - Registrations Open!

Master of Ceremonies: Mojo Mathers MNZM, Chief Executive, Disabled Persons Assembly (DPO).

Speakers: David Corner ONZM, National Self-Advocacy Advisor, IHC; Shara Turner, Senior Advocate, IHC; Dr Huhana Hickey MNZM, Disability Rights Lawyer, Academic, Thought Leader.

Moderators: Piotr Mierzejewski, Director, Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers | Te Rōpū Tauwhiro i Aotearoa; Umi Asaka, Researcher, Donald Beasley Institute.

Panellists: Anusha Gula, Deputy Chief Executive, Operations, Electoral Commission New Zealand | Te Kaitiaki Take Kōwhiri; Dr Emily Beausoleil, Associate Professor in Political Theory, Victoria University of Wellington | Te Herenga Waka; Dr Robbie Francis Watene, Disabled Research Lead | Kaikakahau Matua Whaikaha, Donald Beasley Institute; Rebecca Elvy, Deputy Chief Executive, Outreach and Innovation, Whaikaka | Ministry of Disabled People; Nick Ruane, Disability Activist, Independent; Susan Martell, Legal Supervisor Associate, Aotearoa Disability Law; Will Kim, Kiwi Access Manager, Hospitality New Zealand; Dr Sarah Paterson-Hamlin, Whau Ward Councillor, Auckland Council | Tāmaki Makaurau.

Programme: Word Doc, Braille, Easy Read, NZSL Intro, Audio, Full NZSL, PDF Glossy and  Large Print.

Register for Kōrero for Change - Political and Democratic Processes today!

NZSL Intro

NZSL Full