Davidson reveals death threats

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson says she received death threats after backing Auckland Mayor Phil Goff for refusing a venue to a pair of Canadians accused of hate speech.

“Got death threats towards me and my kids from supporters of those two who Goff refused to hire a venue to. My skin has thickened but have blocked for decency. Keyboard warriors,” Davidson tweeted on Saturday.

Earlier, Davidson had shared on Facebook a media post about Goff’s decision to deny access to Lauren Southern and Stefan Molyneux, who hold far-right views on topics ranging from feminism and immigration to Islam.

Their nationwide tour has now been cancelled.

“Good to use our freedom of speech to say your racist bigoted views aren’t going to be catered for here. Thanks Phil. These two can get out,” Davidson said on Facebook.

She added that people “upset at me taking a public stand against this pair with their vile views” had posted responses on her page.

Davidson said she had deleted the comments but was trying to retrieve them to pass to police, Radio NZ said.

Her posts ignited a social media debate. While most backed Davidson speaking out against hate speech and racism, others continued to attack her personally.

She later wrote: “I hope it doesn’t upset too many people that I am not wasting my time reading the tears on my page from people who are upset at a Ma¯ ori woman political leader using my platform to say I abhor the vile crap that these people are espousing and will stand up against them at every opportunity . . . I’m not here for your hateful words. White supremacists you are done. Get out.”

Goff tweeted on Friday: “Views that divide rather than unite are repugnant . . . Lauren Southern and Stefan Molyneux will not be speaking at any council venues.”

Southern was banned from entering the UK this year.