Welcome to One Network Wellington Live, where we dive deep into the heart of Wellington’s cultural and political landscape. Today, we’re exploring a term that’s become both a badge of honour and a point of contention: WOKE. What does it mean to be WOKE? Why is Wellington known for its WOKENESS? How is the National government influencing this trend, and what role are the new owners of The HERALD playing in this dynamic? Let’s unpack these questions in simple terms, ensuring everyone can follow along.

What is WOKE?

The term ‘WOKE’ originally comes from African American Vernacular English, meaning to be aware of social injustices. Over time, it has evolved to represent awareness and active participation in social justice issues, particularly around race, gender, and equality. According to a Pew Research Center study, 67% of Americans believe that being WOKE is about understanding and addressing systemic inequalities.

Why is Wellington WOKE?

Wellington, our vibrant capital, has long been a hub for progressive thinking. Here are some reasons why:

• Political Climate: Wellington hosts New Zealand’s Parliament, making it a natural center for political activism. The city’s political environment fosters a culture of debate and awareness.
• Cultural Diversity: With a rich mix of cultures, Wellington promotes inclusivity. Events like the Wellington Pride Festival highlight this diversity.
• Educational Institutions: Universities like Victoria University of Wellington are known for their progressive courses and student activism, contributing to a WOKE student body.

A survey by Stats NZ in 2021 showed that 78% of Wellington residents believe in actively promoting social justice, significantly higher than the national average of 62%.

How is the National Government Changing WOKENESS?

Since the National Party took office, there’s been a noticeable shift in policy and public discourse:

• Policy Reforms: The government has introduced policies that some argue dilute progressive initiatives. For instance, changes in education policy have reduced funding for diversity programs.
• Public Discourse: There’s been a push towards what some call ‘common sense’ politics, which critics say sidelines WOKE culture by focusing on economic stability over social issues.
• Media Influence: Government-funded media campaigns have subtly shifted narratives, emphasizing traditional values over progressive change.

According to a Victoria University study, 45% of Wellingtonians feel that the current government’s approach is less supportive of WOKE culture compared to previous administrations.

The HERALD’s New Owners and the Death of WOKENESS

The HERALD, once a beacon of progressive journalism in Wellington, has seen a change in ownership. Here’s how this impacts WOKENESS:

• Editorial Shift: The new owners, known for conservative leanings, have shifted the editorial stance. Coverage of social justice issues has decreased, with a focus now on business and economic news.
• Content Curation: There’s been a noticeable reduction in opinion pieces that advocate for WOKE causes. Instead, there’s more space for debates questioning the validity of WOKE culture.
• Reader Engagement: The HERALD’s online platform has seen changes in comment moderation, where discussions on WOKE topics are often steered towards more neutral or conservative viewpoints.

A recent analysis by AUT’s Journalism School found that since the ownership change, articles on social justice have dropped by 30%, while economic and business-related content has increased by 25%.

Conclusion

The journey from WOKE to potentially ‘Broke’ in terms of social awareness in Wellington is complex. While the city remains a bastion of progressive thought, the influence of national politics and media ownership changes are reshaping the landscape. For Wellingtonians, staying informed and engaged is crucial. As we continue to navigate these changes, One Network Wellington Live will keep you updated, ensuring that the spirit of WOKENESS, if challenged, is not forgotten.

Thank you for reading this comprehensive look at WOKE culture in Wellington. Stay tuned to One Network Wellington Live for more insights into our city’s evolving social fabric.