Decolonisation Notes '

Pākehā and Decolonisation

• Colonisation has created an unequal society, and Pākehā have benefited.
• Pākehā need to challenge outdated ideas and take cues from Māori leadership to decolonise.
• Intentions don't matter when tracing the effects of colonisation; unconscious bias and systemic benefits to Pākehā must be addressed.
• Decolonisation is complex and political, hinging on relationships and Māori leadership.

Reflecting on Decolonisation

• Decolonisation allows Pākehā to better understand their identity, history, and connection to the land.
• Pākehā identity is often based on ignoring how they came to be connected to the land.
• Discomfort is important in decolonisation, and Pākehā should reflect on why they feel it instead of becoming defensive.
• Avoid denial, diversion, detriment-centring, and demands to "move on."

Transforming Through Decolonisation

• Pronouncing Māori names correctly is essential as it shows respect.
• Learn from Māori on their experiences and on racism, and trust their views.
• Pākehā must understand that their experiences of society may differ greatly from those of Māori.

Indigeneity

• Pākehā are not Indigenous, and claiming Indigeneity arises from insecurities.
• Fears about being asked to leave miss the point as the issue is about control, power and lack of manaakitanga (reciprocity and mutual respect) from Pākehā.
• Pākehā can legitimise their place by honouring the Treaty relationship and engaging in decolonisation.

Māori 'Entitlements'

• Pākehā often ignore their own privileges and inherited wealth from colonisation.
• Decolonisation requires giving up power and privilege in material ways.
• Support the return of Māori land and advocate for better resource allocation.
• Advocate for shifting power away from Pākehā norms in workplaces and communities.

The Danger of Good Intentions

• Be aware of the politics involved when engaging with te reo and tikanga Māori.
• Avoid positioning oneself as an expert and consider motivations and capacity to navigate carefully.
• Prioritise Māori needs and spaces and respect their perspectives, and be aware of what you say.
• Pākehā must exhibit humility and care, and acknowledge broader systems perpetuating colonialism.

Speaking Up

• It is important to speak out against racism and exclusionary actions; free speech is not absolute.
• Balance individual freedoms with collective responsibilities.
• Open a dialogue rather than shaming.
• Be gentle and respectful in conversations, and support decolonisation movements.

Concluding Thoughts

• Decolonisation requires a long-term commitment to listen, think, and act to create a fairer society.
• Pākehā must give up some power in determining the country's direction, and should be led by Māori.
• This process will require discomfort and courage in the pursuit of a stronger, fairer, and healthier society.