Labour Party leader Chris Hipkins has drawn criticism for dismissing concerns raised by the Associate Health Minister Casey Costello over Health NZ’s refusal to use the word woman when referring to female patients.
Instead of backing a return to clear and respectful language in healthcare, Hipkins chose to criticise efforts to address the issue – prompting strong backlash from ACT MP Karen Chhour.
“Sometimes the first job of a politician isn’t to speak, but to listen,” said Chhour.
Chris Hipkins should listen to the women who’ve felt confused and alienated by a health system that refers to them as ‘people with a cervix’ or ‘individuals capable of childbearing’.
Critics say Hipkins’ stance reflects a broader disconnect with everyday New Zealanders who are tired of bureaucratic language that erases biological reality.
“Women don’t want to be erased as a group by a public health system obsessed with politically correct terms,” Chhour added. “It’s left women feeling disrespected and dehumanised, and I’m glad we now have a Government that is listening.”
The controversy underscores growing frustration with public institutions that prioritise ideology over clear communication and basic respect for women.
This article was originally published by the Daily Telegraph New Zealand.
