“Sustaining culture in isolation is exhausting. But necessary”: Dr Wahineata Smith reflects on the realities of being away from iwi and hapū
Photo credit: W Smith
In a recent article for the Mana Wahine series of the Otago Daily Times, Te Tumu’s Māori Studies lecturer, Dr Wahineata Smith, shares some of the costs and realities for whānau who are geographically distanced from iwi and hapū. Specifically, navigating the costs associated with cultural, spiritual and social connections as well as the emotional weight of having to make “cruel economic decision[s] between tikanga and balancing the family finances.” Woven through the article is Smith’s clear respect for and accountability toward her children and the worlds she wants them to know, be part of and move through with confidence. And while she mentions the tension and struggle of having to be “the sole bearer of all things Māori” within her home, the relationships she has with mana whenua and mātāwaka here in Ōtepoti strengthen and support her as she carries that responsibility. The article, which appears in the May 25 issue of the Mana Wahine series, has also featured article from Te Tumu staff, Professor Karyn Paringatai and Kare Tipa.
