Volunteering and Activism: The Role of Māori Wāhine
The period from 1970 onwards marked a transformative era for Māori women in New Zealand, characterised by a resurgence of cultural identity, political activism, and community leadership. Māori women, often referred to as wāhine Māori, have played a pivotal role in shaping the social and political landscape of New Zealand through their involvement in volunteering and activism. Their efforts have been instrumental in addressing the challenges faced by Māori communities, preserving and revitalising Māori culture, and advocating for social justice and equality.
Cultural Renaissance and Political Activism
The 1970s were a time of significant cultural and political change in New Zealand, particularly for Māori. The period is often referred to as the Māori Renaissance, a time when there was a renewed emphasis on Māori culture, language, and identity. Wāhine Māori were at the forefront of this movement, leading efforts to preserve te reo Māori (the Māori language), traditional practices, and cultural heritage.
One of the most notable forms of activism during this period was the establishment of the Māori Women’s Welfare League (MWWL), which had been founded in 1951 but gained new momentum in the 1970s. The MWWL was a key organisation in advocating for the health, education, and social well-being of Māori women and their families. Through volunteering and grassroots activism, the League worked tirelessly to address the inequalities faced by Māori communities, particularly in the areas of housing, healthcare, and education.
Wāhine Māori also played a crucial role in the land rights movement, particularly through their involvement in the Māori land march of 1975, led by Whina Cooper. This march, known as the hīkoi, was a pivotal moment in New Zealand’s history, drawing national attention to the issue of Māori land rights. Women were central to the organisation and execution of the hīkoi, demonstrating their leadership and commitment to the cause of Māori sovereignty and self-determination.
Education and Language Revitalisation
One of the most significant contributions of wāhine Māori to New Zealand society since the 1970s has been their role in the revitalization of the Māori language. During this period, te reo Māori was at risk of disappearing, with fewer young people speaking the language. In response, Māori women took the lead in establishing kōhanga reo (Māori language preschools) in the early 1980s. These grassroots initiatives were community-driven, with women volunteering their time and resources to ensure that future generations would grow up fluent in their ancestral language.
Kōhanga reo were not just educational institutions but also centers of cultural revival. They provided a space for the transmission of Māori values, customs, and knowledge, and empowered Māori women as educators and leaders within their communities. The success of the kōhanga reo movement led to the establishment of kura kaupapa Māori (Māori immersion schools) and eventually to the recognition of te reo Māori as an official language of New Zealand in 1987. The leadership of wāhine Māori in this language revitalization movement has had a lasting impact on the preservation of Māori culture and identity.
Health and Social Services
In addition to their work in education and language revitalisation, Māori women have been instrumental in addressing the health disparities faced by Māori communities. The 1970s and 1980s saw the emergence of Māori-led health initiatives, many of which were spearheaded by women. These initiatives were often volunteer-driven and focused on providing culturally appropriate healthcare services that addressed the specific needs of Māori.
One such initiative was the establishment of Māori health providers, which offered services that incorporated traditional Māori healing practices alongside Western medicine. Māori women played a key role in these organisations, both as healthcare providers and as advocates for the integration of Māori perspectives into the wider health system.
The work of wāhine Māori in the health sector extended beyond the provision of services to include advocacy for policy changes that would improve the health outcomes of Māori. Their activism led to the recognition of the importance of culturally competent care and the need for greater representation of Māori in the healthcare workforce.
Environmental Activism and Land Stewardship
Māori women have also been deeply involved in environmental activism, particularly in the protection of land and water resources. The connection between Māori identity and the environment is deeply rooted in Māori cosmology, which views the land (whenua) as a living entity and an ancestor. Wāhine Māori have been at the forefront of efforts to protect the environment from degradation, pollution, and exploitation.
The establishment of the Waitangi Tribunal in 1975 provided a platform for Māori to seek redress for historical grievances related to land confiscation and environmental degradation. Māori women have been active in presenting claims to the Tribunal, advocating for the restoration of land and the protection of natural resources. Their activism has been crucial in raising awareness of environmental issues and in promoting sustainable practices that are aligned with Māori values.
Leadership and Political Representation
Since the 1970s, Māori women have increasingly taken on leadership roles within their communities and in the broader political landscape of New Zealand. The election of Dame Te Atairangikaahu as the first female Māori monarch in 1966, and her subsequent leadership, inspired a generation of Māori women to take on leadership roles in both traditional and contemporary settings.
In the political arena, wāhine Māori have made significant strides, with women such as Dame Tariana Turia and Metiria Turei becoming prominent figures in New Zealand politics. Their advocacy for Māori rights, social justice, and environmental protection has had a lasting impact on the country’s political landscape. The involvement of Māori women in politics has also challenged traditional gender roles within Māori society, demonstrating the capacity of wāhine Māori to lead and effect change at the highest levels.
Conclusion
The role of Māori women in volunteering and activism since the 1970s has been central to the advancement of Māori rights, the preservation of Māori culture, and the promotion of social justice in New Zealand. Their contributions have been diverse and far-reaching, encompassing education, health, environmental stewardship, and political leadership. Wāhine Māori have not only addressed the immediate needs of their communities but have also laid the groundwork for future generations to thrive. Their legacy is one of resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of Māori and the broader New Zealand society.
Written by: Cheryll Martin QSO, Volunteering Auckland
