The abolition of apartheid, homosexual law reform, anti-war (from Vietnam to Iraq) campaigns, votes for women - the mainstream are often on the wrong side of history at the start of significant social reforms.
The broader question is how to increase Maori representation in decision-making under a system that was designed by others for the benefit of others. It may not be through Maori wards on council, though it seems to work in national politics.
But Maori do need more of a say at local level, not least because of their role laid down in law under the Treaty of Waitangi and the Resource Management Act. Having such huge responsibility can't come without representation at local council level, where much of this work is done.
Smart and constructive discussion of this issue has been moved forward by Andrew Judd's bold stance and Hadyn Jones' measured journalism.
Congratulations to them both.
