We stand at an important moment in New Zealand’s history, faced with an opportunity to ensure Justice for Samoans and to address a longstanding injustice that has affected our Samoan elders. The Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act of 1982 is a legislation that has, for decades, unjustly denied New Zealand citizenship to many people of Samoan descent, contradicting the ideals of fairness and equality that we cherish.

From 1920 until 1962, NZ administered Western Samoa under the League of Nations mandate and United Nations trusteeship. After Western Samoa achieved independence in 1962, the status of Samoans living in NZ was uncertain.

In a case taken to the highest court - the Privy Council by Falema’i Lesa, a Samoan woman living in NZ at the time, she pressed her claim to be a NZ citizen. The Privy Council ruled on the 19th of July 1982 that all Western Samoans born between 1924 and 1948 were British subjects and that in 1949 they and their descendants had become NZ citizens.

However, when the Privy Council granted NZ citizenship to Western Samoans born since 1924, the National Government of the day did not accept this decision. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Robert Muldoon at the time, the government rushed through an Act granting NZ citizenship only to Western Samoans who were living in NZ on 14 September 1982 or subsequently obtained permanent residence.

Many Samoans felt betrayed by the NZ government’s response. The 1982 Act remains a concern for Samoans in NZ who desire freedom of movement between the two countries.

We urge you to join us in signing the petition to repeal this Act and to restore justice for Samoans who are between the ages of 75-100 years old.  It is estimated that this may affect between 3,000 - 5,000 people who are still alive today.

Why This Matters

1. Correcting a Historical Wrong In 1982, a ruling by the Privy Council granted rightful New Zealand citizenship to those Samoans born before Samoa's independence in 1948. However, the Government of the day under PM Muldoon passed into law the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982 to quickly overturn this Privy Council court decision, in effect stripping many Samoans of the citizenship rights they were legally recognised to possess. This act was not only a denial of justice but also a betrayal of the principles of fairness and inclusivity.
2. Upholding New Zealand's Values. New Zealand prides itself on being a fair, just, and inclusive society. By supporting this petition, we affirm these values and take active steps towards actualising them, not just for those of us born here but also for those who share our land and life.  
3. Strengthening Community Ties. Samoans contribute significantly to various sectors in New Zealand, enriching our culture and strengthening our economy. Officially recognising their rights as citizens not only corrects an injustice but also enhances the social fabric of our nation, fostering deeper connections and mutual respect. 
4. Enhancing New Zealand's International Reputation Internationally, New Zealand is regarded as a leader in human rights and social justice. By addressing this issue, we reinforce this reputation, showing the world that we are committed to fairness and willing to rectify past mistakes. 
5. Empowering our Next Generation As young people, we hold the power to shape the future of our country. By engaging in this cause, we set a precedent for proactive involvement in our democracy and governance, championing the causes that matter and ensuring that our nation remains a beacon of hope and fairness.

How You Can Help

Sign the Petition - Your signature is powerful. By signing the petition, you make your voice heard and contribute to a growing movement that demands justice and equality.

Spread the Word - Use your social media platforms, talk to your friends and family, and encourage others to understand the issue and get involved. The more people know about the injustices of the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982, the stronger our call for justice.

Stay Informed - Educate yourself about the history and impacts of this legislation, and stay engaged with updates on this issue. Knowledge is power, and an informed community is an empowered one. 

Finally,

Our actions today will define the moral landscape of our future. Let us stand together for justice, equality, and the recognition of our Samoan brothers and sisters as rightful citizens of New Zealand. Sign the petition, raise your voice, and help us repeal the Citizenship (Western Samoa) Act 1982. Together, we can right this wrong and build a fairer, more just New Zealand for all.

Please join us & Sign today.