Author: Stacey Morrison
Te Reo Matahīapo is a new Māori language revitalisation programme, funded by the Māori language revitalisation agency Te Mātāwai, which has a vision to restore te reo Māori as a nurturing first language. Based in Auckland, it brings together three Urban Māori organisations: Manukau Urban Māori Authority (MUMA), Manurewa Marae and Te Whānau o Waipareira Trust. Te Reo Matahīapo will be strengthened by a collaborative approach across the three organisations, however the rollout of kaupapa will be distinct to each community. Providing opportunities to address common barriers such as whakamā, or embarrassment and language trauma from past experiences, activities can be approached with fun and whanaungatanga. The development of new, whānau-based indicators will provide meaningful information and data, ensuring that whānau and community narratives are captured. In coming together as three Māori organisations, co-designing with our communities, and being led by whānau, Te Reo Matahīapo is an example of how sharing experiences and resources can strengthen approach, and boost results and healing of language trauma.
Key words: te reo Māori, language, Collective Impact, trauma, kotahitanga