Recently, during a casual conversation over drinkies, I was discussing our company's plans to continue working with Riki Consultancy Ltd next year as part of our Te Tiriti strategy. Someone asked why we were still bothering, especially since under the current government it was no longer an edict—in fact, quite the opposite. My response was simple: we never undertook this journey because of an edict from anyone; we undertook it because it aligned with our values as a company. It was, and remains, the right thing to do.
Eru Kapa-Kingi said, "The difference between a radical thought and a normal one is timing and familiarity."
During the Hikoi, I observed many people who, ten years ago, might have considered participating in such an event as being a radical act.
On the day, however, they seemed to find it the most normal, natural thing to be doing. These individuals had clearly looked past the reductive and dismissive rhetoric that was flung at the peaceful but determined protest the moment it began. I suspect they also had a pretty good understanding that "equality" doesn’t necessarily translate into "equity."
Our partner at Koha.kiwi, Te Awanui Reeder, recently wrote about the exhaustion he feels due the constant battle he faces as tangata whenua, especially in recent times.
Reading his words left me feeling embarrassed. Not embarrassed by his vulnerability, but by the fact that I could go on the Hikoi, feeling invigorated and proud to have been part of something magical, and then simply return to other things. My participation in this battle is, if i'm honest, a choice. That realisation shifted my embarrassment into something deeper: I felt a bit ashamed.
Moving Forward
So, whanau, as the Hikoi transitions from a powerful moment into a cherished memory, I reckon the best thing that tangata tiriti can do is to help in the battle, lets carry some of the load. So over the break, here are a few things I am going to do:
-
Make a submission!
-
Celebrate and elevate tangata whenua! - Proudly and loudly acknowledge the amazing contributions of tangata whenua. Through the socials, with mates, supporting events.
-
Immerse myself further in Matauranga Māori. - This knowledge is graciously shared, I am going to gratefully embrace it.
-
Learn even more about the history of this country - I loved Social Studies and History at High School, but hell I had completely forgotten about the legislative genocide that happened in this country. Thanks Riki Consultancy Ltd
-
Speak up - At that Christmas BBQ, when the racist second cousin talks about "bloody Maoris," rather than rolling my eyeballs loudly, I will gently but firmly correct them: "There is no 'S' in Māori, so it’s 'Bloody Māori."
-
Then, as they rapidly try to change the subject, I will push on and explain that: instead of fearing what they think will be taken from them, they should try and celebrate the richness and beauty that comes through a Te Ao Māori lens, appreciate the taonga that tangata whenua give to this stunning country, appreciate the gift that tangata whenua are and appreciate what a privilege it is to be able to march along side our partners - yesterday, today and tomorrow.
So endeth the rant! 😊
May you have a safe and restful break.
Ka ara ake tētahi, ka ara ake te katoa - One lifts, we all lift
