The Māori language, known as te reo Māori, is a cornerstone of Māori culture and identity. It serves not only as a means of communication but also as a vessel for cultural traditions, values, and history. However, like many indigenous languages, te reo Māori faced significant decline due to colonialism and its aftermath. Efforts to revive and preserve the language have been ongoing for decades, and a pivotal role in these efforts has been played by iwi, the tribal groups that form the socio-political units of Māori society.
Understanding Iwi
Iwi are the largest social units in Māori society, typically composed of numerous hapū (sub-tribes) and whānau (extended families). Each iwi has its own distinct identity, history, and traditions, which are often tied to specific geographical regions in New Zealand. The role of iwi in Māori society is multifaceted, encompassing governance, social welfare, cultural preservation, and education.
The structure and organization of iwi provide a robust framework for community-driven initiatives, making them well-suited to spearhead efforts in language preservation. Iwi have the social cohesion, leadership, and resources necessary to mobilize their members and implement effective language revitalization strategies.
The Decline of Te Reo Māori
The decline of the Māori language can be traced back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, following European colonization. English became the dominant language in New Zealand, and Māori children were often discouraged or even punished for speaking their native language in schools. This led to a significant decrease in the number of fluent Māori speakers, particularly among younger generations.
By the mid-20th century, the situation had reached a critical point, with te reo Māori at risk of becoming a language spoken only by the elderly. This decline prompted urgent calls for action from Māori communities and leaders, who recognized the need to preserve their language as a vital aspect of their cultural heritage.
Iwi-Led Language Revitalization Initiatives
In response to the decline of te reo Māori, iwi have taken a leading role in language revitalization efforts. These initiatives are diverse and multifaceted, encompassing education, media, community programs, and policy advocacy.
Educational Programs
One of the most effective strategies for language preservation has been the establishment of Māori-language educational programs. Kura Kaupapa Māori (Māori immersion schools) and Wharekura (Māori secondary schools) provide students with an education conducted entirely in te reo Māori. These schools are often established and managed by iwi, ensuring that the curriculum is aligned with the specific cultural and linguistic needs of the community.
Additionally, iwi have been instrumental in the development of Te Ataarangi, a community-based language learning program that uses the “silent way” method to teach te reo Māori. This program has been widely adopted across New Zealand and has been successful in teaching thousands of adults and children to speak Māori.
Media and Broadcasting
Iwi have also played a crucial role in the establishment of Māori-language media. Te Reo, a television channel broadcasting entirely in Māori, and iwi radio stations have been instrumental in normalizing the use of te reo Māori in everyday life. These media outlets provide a platform for Māori voices and perspectives, promoting the language and making it more accessible to a wider audience.
By producing content that is relevant and engaging, these media initiatives help to foster a sense of pride and connection to the language among Māori and non-Māori alike. They also serve as an important resource for language learners, providing opportunities to hear and practice te reo Māori in a variety of contexts.
Community Programs and Initiatives
Grassroots community programs have been another cornerstone of iwi-led language revitalization efforts. These programs often include language classes, cultural workshops, and events that bring people together to learn and practice te reo Māori. By creating spaces where the language can be used and celebrated, these initiatives help to build a supportive community of speakers.
Marae, the traditional meeting grounds of Māori communities, often serve as hubs for these activities. Many iwi have established language nests (puna reo) at their marae, where young children can be immersed in te reo Māori from an early age. These programs are based on the belief that language is best learned in a natural, supportive environment where it is used in everyday interactions.
Policy Advocacy and Support
Iwi have also been active in advocating for policies that support the preservation and revitalization of te reo Māori. This advocacy has led to significant achievements, including the recognition of Māori as an official language of New Zealand in 1987 and the establishment of the Māori Language Commission (Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori), which promotes the use of te reo Māori and provides resources for language learners.
Iwi leaders have worked closely with government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations to ensure that policies and programs are in place to support the growth of te reo Māori. This collaborative approach has been essential in creating a supportive environment for language revitalization efforts.
The Impact of Iwi-Led Initiatives
The efforts of iwi in preserving and revitalizing te reo Māori have had a profound impact on the language and its speakers. According to the 2013 New Zealand Census, the number of people who could hold a conversation in Māori had increased to 125,352, representing 21.3% of the Māori population. While there is still much work to be done, this represents a significant improvement from the critical state of the language in the mid-20th century.
The success of iwi-led initiatives can be attributed to several key factors:
Community Engagement: By involving the community in language revitalization efforts, iwi have been able to create a sense of ownership and responsibility for the language. This has helped to build a strong, supportive network of speakers and learners.
Cultural Relevance: Iwi-led programs are often grounded in the cultural traditions and values of the community. This makes the language more meaningful and relevant to learners, fostering a deeper connection to te reo Māori.
Holistic Approach: Iwi initiatives often take a holistic approach to language revitalization, addressing not only language skills but also cultural knowledge, identity, and well-being. This comprehensive approach helps to create a more sustainable and resilient language community.
Leadership and Advocacy: Strong leadership and advocacy from iwi have been essential in securing the resources and support needed for language revitalization efforts. By working closely with government agencies, educational institutions, and other organizations, iwi have been able to create a supportive environment for te reo Māori.
The Future of Te Reo Māori
While significant progress has been made in the revitalization of te reo Māori, there are still challenges to be addressed. Ensuring the intergenerational transmission of the language is critical, as is expanding the use of te reo Māori in everyday life and across various domains, including business, technology, and the arts.
Iwi will continue to play a crucial role in these efforts, building on the successes of the past and adapting to new challenges and opportunities. By maintaining a strong focus on community engagement, cultural relevance, and holistic approaches, iwi can help to ensure that te reo Māori remains a living, vibrant language for future generations.
Conclusion
The role of iwi in the preservation of the Māori language is a testament to the strength and resilience of Māori communities. Through educational programs, media initiatives, community activities, and policy advocacy, iwi have been at the forefront of efforts to revive and sustain te reo Māori. Their work has not only helped to increase the number of Māori speakers but has also fostered a deeper connection to the language and its cultural heritage.
As we look to the future, the continued leadership and commitment of iwi will be essential in ensuring the vitality and longevity of te reo Māori. By working together, Māori and non-Māori alike can support the ongoing revitalization of this precious taonga (treasure) and celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of Aotearoa New Zealand.
