For decades, the stories of New Zealand’s state care abuse survivors remained hidden, buried beneath a weight of silence and shame. But in recent years, a tide of change has begun to rise, fueled by the courage of survivors who have stepped forward to share their experiences of abuse, neglect, and systemic failures within the state care system. Their journey to the Royal Commission, their powerful voices echoing in the halls of Parliament, and their historic invitation to Government House by the Governor-General have marked a turning point, signaling a profound shift in the national conversation surrounding state care abuse.
Govenor General to ngā Mōrehu photo / RC
A Legacy of Trauma: The Scars of Lake Ellis, Tokonui, and Beyond:
The harrowing testimonies of survivors from institutions like Lake Ellis, The Mellville Boy’s home, Dey street Girls, Weymouth, Hokio, Kohitere, and Tokonui, as well as those who endured the failings of The Department of Social Welfare, Cyfs and Oranga Tamariki, have laid bare the devastating impact of state care on countless lives.
These stories, often recounted with raw vulnerability and unflinching honesty, have exposed a system rife with abuse, neglect, and a lack of accountability. Many survivors have spoken of the profound emotional and psychological scars they carry, the enduring trauma that has shaped their lives, and the struggle for healing and justice.
Kohitere Boy’s home Photo/ Smale. A
Seeking Refuge: The Complex Journey of State Care Survivors in Gangs:
For some state care survivors, the search for belonging and protection led them to the gangs. These individuals, often yearning for a sense of family and community that was absent in their childhoods, found solace and camaraderie within the gangs. However, this path often came with its own set of challenges, perpetuating cycles of violence, addiction, and criminal activity.
Photo / Hikoi Nation
The stories of these survivors are complex and nuanced. They highlight the systemic failures that pushed vulnerable individuals towards gang affiliation, while also acknowledging the resilience and strength they displayed in navigating these difficult circumstances.
Toni James Rei Photo / Supplied
Finding Strength in Unity: The Rise of Ngāti Mōrehu:
From the depths of their shared experiences, a powerful sense of unity has emerged. State care survivors, united by their collective trauma and their unwavering pursuit of justice, have recognised the need for a collective identity, a space where they can find solace, support, and a sense of belonging. This shared vision has led to wanting to establish Ngāti Mōrehu, a new iwi comprised of state care abuse survivors.
Ngāti Mōrehu signifies a profound shift in the narrative of state care. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of survivors who have refused to be defined by their past. Instead, they are actively shaping their future, creating a space where they can heal, support one another, and advocate for systemic change.
Ihoranga Reweti Peters photo / RC
The Path Forward: A Legacy of Hope and Healing:
The creation of Ngāti Mōrehu is not just a symbolic act; it is a practical step towards a future where state care survivors can thrive. The iwi aims to provide a range of support services, including:
– Trauma-informed care: Addressing the unique needs of survivors through culturally appropriate therapy, counseling, and support groups.
– Advocacy and legal support: Providing guidance and resources to navigate the legal system and advocate for their rights.
– Cultural connection and identity development: Offering opportunities for survivors to reconnect with their cultural heritage and build a strong sense of identity.
– Economic empowerment: Supporting survivors in accessing education, employment, and financial resources to achieve economic independence.
– Community building and outreach: Creating safe havens and support networks for survivors, particularly those who have experienced gang affiliation, providing opportunities for reintegration and healing.
Strategies for Establishing Ngāti Mōrehu:
Strategies are crucial in shaping the establishment of Ngāti Mōrehu. The key elements include:
– Hui Early 2025: Hosting regular hui early in 2025 provides a platform for open dialogue, decision-making, and fostering a sense of collective ownership among members.
– Putting together a focus group to Pilot: Forming a dedicated group to pilot the establishment of Ngāti Mōrehu ensures a structured approach to the process.
– Enlisting Te Ara Takatū, who were the Indigenous experts advising the Royal Commission during its term.
–Engaging in Social Media: Collaborating with platforms can amplify awareness and support for Ngāti Mōrehu’s establishment
Conclusion:
These strategies, when implemented effectively, will lay the groundwork for a successful and sustainable future for Ngāti Mōrehu, empowering state care survivors to forge a new path towards healing, unity, and advocacy.
Names representing 250, 000 Mōrehu on ribbons taken into Parliament photo/ supplied
Reference:
Epenesa. A.( 23 Feb 2023). Op-Ed about Hikoi Nation’s Gang Hui regarding the Royal Commission Inquiry into Abuse in Care. [Image] Retrieved 28/08/2024 from: https://www.bluwavetv.com/post/op-ed-about-hikoi-nation-s-gang-hui-regarding-the-royal-commission-inquiry-into-abuse-in-care
Royal Commission. (14 Aug 2024). Dame Cindy Kiro welcoming guests from Royal Commission. [Image] Retrieved 38/08/2024 from: https://gg.govt.nz/image-galleries/10329/media
The Hui. (23 July 2024). Abuse in care survivors await Government response. Retrieved 28/08/2024 from: https://youtu.be/qb_MUmyK580?si=8BI4FSJIUhQy5Div
Smale, A. (22 July 2024). The Crown is in the dock and the verdict is in. [Image] Retrieved 28/08/2024 from: https://newsroom.co.nz/2024/07/22/the-crown-is-in-the-dock-the-verdict-is-in/
Survivor experience Ihoranga Reweti Peters Abuse in Care. [Image] Retrieved 28/08/2024 from: https://www.abuseincare.org.nz/reports/whanaketia/survivor-experiences/survivor-experience-ihorangi-reweti-peters/
Survivor experience Wiremu Waikari: Abuse in Care [Image] Retrieved 28/08/2024 from: https://www.abuseincare.org.nz/reports/whanaketia/case-studies/case-study-hokio-kohitere/survivor-experience-wiremu/
