Child Matters says marching for Moko Rangitoheriri is the start of whole communities taking responsibility for keeping kids safe.
From Whangarei to Oamaru, thousands of people took to the streets yesterday, sparked by the brutal death of the Taupo toddler. The three-year-old was killed by his two caregivers.
Child Matters spokesperson Amanda Meynell says remembering Moko's memory is important.
"The atmosphere was one of real hope for change and wanting to do things differently," she says. "The speakers in Hamilton spoke about coming together in a community and looking out for children and our neighbourhoods."
Child Matters says a real change to our child abuse problem will come from education, not legislation.
Ms Meynell says putting child abuse in the limelight means people are learning how to deal with the issue.
"To recognise when children are at risk of being abused, have that understanding about what to do about that, to know where to go to get help and to have the confidence to take some action and to stand up for children."
Protestors are vowing to end violence against children, seeing Moko's brutal death as the tipping point for many New Zealanders who are now taking action against child abuse.
Ms Meynell says communities are feeling empowered to change.
"People have been really touched by this particular case, and the horrific nature of what happened to Moko. I think that we've been talking about child abuse and the issues around children for years and years, and I think it's come to a head."
The caregivers have pleaded guilty to manslaughter and will be sentenced in June.
Newshub.
