Blackballed!

An Incident in Polynesia

AN incident that is typical of the social difficulties in Polynesia occurred re cently in Rarotonga, in connection with one of the European sports clubs.

A well-known resident, who is a business man, held in high regard, and a quiet, gentlemanly person, was nominated for associate membership of the club. He already was connected with another branch of the club’s sports, and he accepted mem bership without thought of rebuff.

The usual ballot was held, and all those present voted in favour. Then someone who had not been present objected to the method of the ballot, and it finally was declared invalid. Another ballot was ordered. To the astonishment of the can didate’s nominators, he was blackballed.

Someone had pointed out that the candi date was a half-caste —his mother was a Polynesian—and was married to a Poly nesian girl. Colour prejudices were stirred, and the candidate was turned away from the club.

The club committee then had the highly embarrassing duty of going to this quite unsuspecting man, and informing him of what had happened.

Candidate and nominators no doubt acted in perfect innocence and good faith; and fine old British institutions must be maintained; but several people in Raro tonga were very angry that so cruel a slight was gratuitously given to a man for whom they have a high regard.