Introduction:
The recent decision by the coalition government to slash funding for the Te Ahu o te reo Māori program by $30 million is a blatant act of discrimination against Māori language and culture. This move, despite overwhelming evidence of the program’s success, is a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle to revitalize te reo Māori in Aotearoa.
The Ministry of Education’s own report, commissioned to assess the program’s impact, paints a clear picture of its effectiveness. A staggering 56% of participants are actively teaching te reo Māori, a figure that could rise to 80% when considering senior leadership roles. The report also revealed that 79% of participants are eager to continue their journey with Te Ahu o te reo Māori, and an impressive 97% would recommend the program to others. Furthermore, 77% reported that the program empowered them to integrate tikanga Māori into educational settings, while 87% felt it boosted their confidence in using te reo Māori in the classroom.
Photo / Te Karere
This resounding success begs the question: why would the government choose to dismantle a program demonstrably contributing to the revitalization of te reo Māori? This decision echoes the discriminatory policies of the past, particularly the Native Schools Act of 1867, which sought to assimilate Māori children into European culture and suppress their language. This act, much like the current funding cuts, aimed to eradicate te reo Māori from the fabric of Aotearoa, ultimately leading to its decline.
Photo / Te Karere
The rhetoric of the Ministry of Education, claiming that the funding cuts are necessary due to budgetary constraints, rings hollow in the face of the program’s proven impact. This decision feels like a deliberate attempt to stifle the growth of te reo Māori and perpetuate the historical marginalization of Māori culture.
Photo / Te Karere
It is imperative that we challenge this decision. We must raise our voices, engage in public discourse, and demand accountability from the government. We must also actively support initiatives that promote te reo Māori, such as community language classes, immersion schools, and cultural events.
Te reo Māori is not just a language; it is the heart and soul of Māori identity, a vital part of Aotearoa’s cultural heritage. It is a language that embodies the unique history, values, and worldview of the Māori people. Entrenching te reo Māori in our society is not just about preserving a language; it is about fostering a sense of belonging, celebrating diversity, and ensuring that the rich tapestry of Aotearoa’s cultural heritage is passed on to future generations.
Conclusion:
The fight for the revitalization of te reo Māori is far from over. We must stand together, challenge discriminatory policies, and ensure that the language of our ancestors continues to thrive in Aotearoa.
