NZ government formally apologizes over 1970s Dawn raids

The government of New Zealand delivered a formal apology on Sunday to address the injustices done to the Pacific community during the 1970s Dawn raids.

The so-called "Dawn Raids," carried out between 1974 and 1976 to find, convict and deport overstayers, often took place very early in the morning or late at night and were routinely severe with demeaning verbal and physical treatment.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern conceded in June that the Pacific community was left feeling "targeted and terrorized" during that period by the discriminatory raids, which have had a lasting negative impact.

The event, previously scheduled on June 26 and delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions in the country, was held on Sunday in Auckland Town Hall.

(With input from Reuters)