Statement about Sir Robert Martin KNZM from Commissioner Paul Gibson, on behalf of the Commissioners
We are saddened that a mighty totara of the disability community has fallen.
We send our aroha to Sir Robert Martin’s (KNZM) wife Lynda and family, and we thank them for sharing him with us all.
Sir Robert was proud to live with a learning disability.
Sir Robert led with courage, humility and a quiet wisdom – yet he created ripples of change around the world to better the lives of disabled people.
He fought for some of the most forgotten people in the darkest corners of our global village.
Sir Robert was integral in fighting for the Abuse in Care Royal Commission of Inquiry, particularly from a disability lens.
Sir Robert told the Royal Commission: “It is time to challenge New Zealanders. The phrase ‘out of sight, out of mind’ is no longer acceptable. I am going to talk to you about my life in institutions, foster homes and care services. I am in your sight today. I hope my story will remain within your mind.”
Sir Robert continued advocating for the people he called his friends – those who did not get out of care institutions, group homes or special schools and did not get the opportunities he had.
His global reach was ground-breaking. He was the only person with a learning disability to speak at the United Nations during the development of the Convention of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. He turned the world around on several issues impacting people with disabilities. This includes advocating for inclusive education, helping end institutionalisation of disabled people, and fighting for freedom from abuse and neglect.
Aotearoa is blessed with heroes that have changed the world to make it a better place for those most at risk. Sir Robert Martin is one of those heroes.
Sir Robert will remain in our minds. His own words continue to echo: “I want disabled people to live the life they chose free from violence and abuse.”
Haere, haere, haere, moe mai rā Sir Robert.
Paul Gibson was the Disability Rights Commissioner at the Human Rights Commission from 2011 to 2017.