31st March – Unity Speech Award

Initiated in 2001 by the New Zealand Baha’i Community to commemorate Race Relations Day, the Race Unity Speech Award is supported by the Human Rights Commission, New Zealand Police, and the Office of Ethnic Affairs

The Race Unity Speech Awards will be held in support of Race Relations Day through March and will culminate with the finals on 31 March in Auckland.
This is the 12th year of the nationwide speech contest. The Speech Award challenges school students in Years 11, 12, and 13 to consider various aspects of the Race Relations Day theme, which this year is Aotearoa: A Fair Go for All’

The Race Unity Speech Award offers students the chance to share a $1500 top prize with their school. Contestants are invited to prepare a 7-8 minute speech on the topic.

A young BLIA member, Michelle was chosen and to represent her school. Michelle’s parent, BLIA members Dolly Tsai, Jennifer; the Young Adult division members, Max, Anthony and Annjo were there to give support. Michelle made it to the top 6 among the 100 contestants. Well done, Michelle!