FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is AAG about?
In brief, AAG aims to:
- Create awareness on crime and prevention;
- Re-educating the community on self defence and self protection.
- Build a strong voice to shake power leaders to work and act for tougher sentencing.
- Provide victim support for those in need of it.

Do I have to be Asian to join and support AAG?
AAG is open to anyone over 16 years of age and over, regardless of gender, religion, race, and to those who supports AAG's motives.

What are the benefits of Joining AAG?
The benefits of membership include, but are not limited to: increasing lobbying power to ensure the safety and security of the Asian community; having a support network to turn to for assistance and advice; learning tips on how to protect yourself, be more vigilant towards potential crimes and harms, and knowing what to do when you have become a victim of crime; having a voice when it feels like nobody is listening or caring; and ultimately - being a part of a growing network of concerned individuals like yourself wanting to see an end to violent crime and criminal behaviour.

Are there membership fees?
Currently there are currently no membership fees. We are funded by voluntary donations from members and supportive members of the public.

How is AAG dfferent to other organisations?
There are indeed a number of other organisations with similar goals. This is heartening and encouraging, because it demonstrates the depth of feeling in New Zealand's communities that crime, especially violent forms, is a serious threat that demands high priority, committed attention and decisive action by our community and political leaders. The difference between the Asian Anti-Crime Group ("the AAG") and the others is that our priority is focused on the Asian community in particular. The other groups, whilst doing highly commendable work, tend to be more generic and overarching in nature. The AAG was founded, in part, due to the lack of a defined anti-crime and victim-support network in New Zealand that adequately addresses the needs, concerns and issues that are uniquely relevant to the Asian community.

Is AAG a political or religious group?
We are neither political nor religious. We have no affiliations to any political or religious individuals or organisations, and do not intend on having any. It is important that we remain non-partisan because we believe in being as inclusive as possible, recognising that the Asian community is diverse, multi-faceted and heterogeneous. Notwithstanding this, we also recognise that despite our diverse backgrounds, cultures and even belief systems, we are united by the desire to effectively address crime (and especially crimes committed against Asian persons), and the hope of ensuring the safety and security of our families and homes/businesses. Having political or religious affiliations would undermine efforts to forge a united and cohesive front, which is necessary to achieve our objectives. Moreover, being independent allows us the autonomy and latitude to determine what we believe best fits the needs of our community.

I don't have time to contribute.
We understand and appreciate that everyone has busy lives, with various commitments demanding your attention each week. The AAG does not demand or require a commitment of time or input from its members. All AAG members are volunteers who offer or dedicate whatever time they can to the cause. Whatever time you can afford to contribute is, of course, greatly appreciated. Every bit counts, so even if it is a drop, many drops eventually make an ocean. And we certainly need a large volume of water to wash those crime-inflicted scars, sweep away the criminals and drown all criminal activity for good.

I've never been a victim of crime, why should I join?
Criminals don't sleep, and neither should we. We need to be constantly vigilant regarding criminals and potential crimes. Whilst we may not have been affected (yet), one day if and when it does happen to us, will it be too late? What if we could have done something to minimise the impact or prevent it altogether - would we be regretting our inaction and indifference then? And even if we are not affected on an individual level, what about our families, our children or our loved ones are? Can we sit back and let them suffer? These are some of the considerations we need to bear in mind. Despite how robust and well-attuned we think we are regarding criminality, we are neither immune nor inviolable. Beside, we can never be too safe. Prevention is better than cure, and better safe than sorry.

I want to contribute time and effort in anyway possible.
Any means of voluntary help, assistance or expertise you feel may contribute to AAG is an invaluable asset to the community. Whether you are a parent, a professional, a nightowl, or have spare hands, please feel free to contact us.

What is the minimum age requirement to join AAG?
You must be at least 16 years of age and over.

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Asian Anti-crime Group (AAG), Fax: 09-272-9047, Website: www.aag.org.nz
Postal address: PO Box 64-130, Botany Town Centre, Auckland 2016
Disclaimer / Copyright - Copyright © 2008 Asian Anti-Crime Group (AAG) New Zealand