UNDRESSING THE BULLIES.

Given that New Zealand respects civil rights, Wanganui’s banning of gang patches was bound to bring on a protest. But is the argument about the erosion of civil liberties or anarchy versus democracy?

The gangs have clearly not been denied free speech. Their ability to engage in the political, religious and social life enjoyed by other citizens has not been curtailed. In other words, all those democratic rights that we hold dear, rights that are virtually unquestioned in our society, are available to members of gangs.

Gangs are criminal organizations that have set themselves against society and created their own rules. Their customs include grooming ‘prospects’ to commit crimes to earn membership. And the cultural and moral relativity that educated apologists talk about includes gang rape.

But the most disquieting news I gleaned the day after the banning was a 'Morning Report’ item on National Radio. Apparently a handful of mayors had been canvassed for their views. One of them insisted his identity be kept confidential. That, in a nutshell, is why gang patches and democracy are at odds.