I'll read that as letting past resentments be forgotten, considering your reply to Johnty. I'm remembering the old saw about 'those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it'.

Thanks to Glenda for setting the history straight. It had also been my impression that the Europeans had treated the Maori remarkably well, considering their track record with other aborigonal peoples.

I don't agree with reparations for generations-old wounds, with similar reasons as cited by some above. My great-grandfather received a land grant in Oklahoma after our tribe was relocated, and his son sold it so he could feed his alcohol habit. It would have been nice to have a family homestead to visit, but I do not believe I should receive any compensation because of my grandfather's error. My family members (the Europeans, too), have moved up the economic ladder through education and determination.

I think it's rotten that so many marginalized people remain so, often because of limited opportunities (e.g. education). It is up to all the people and the government to ensure that opportunities are available equally. Bootstraps, people - pull on them!