A parliamentary apology falls drastically short for survivors of abuse in New Zealand's care institutions. True accountability demands a shift beyond symbolic gestures, requiring compassion and action directly within affected communities. The government’'s words should be paired with immediate, systemic reforms, direct survivor engagement, and financial redress. Survivors need sustained protections, oversight, and tangible policy changes to prevent future harm, not mere statements. Apologies alone cannotcan't restore their dignity — only a profound and actionable commitment to justice will.