Going home: The importance of reconnecting to Māori culture through whakapapa

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2023
Authors
Lincoln, Erin Marie
Abstract

This article explores how five research participants from my whānau, who grew up in a predominantly Pākehā (white New Zealand) environment, experienced a profound sense of loss and disconnection from their Māori heritage. The study subsequently explores their individual journeys of reconnecting with their Māoritanga. Through their narratives, we gain valuable insights into the pivotal role of whānau support in this process, as well as the significance of whakapapa (genealogy) and the physical return to marae (meeting house), whenua (land) and awa (river). It becomes evident that their reconnection to culture has played a vital role in enhancing their overall wellbeing, with participants framing their journey as a path to healing through a newfound sense of belonging. Conducted within the framework of kaupapa Māori research, this study not only strengthens the mana (spiritual power) of our whānau but offers valuable insights that can inform the development of strategies to protect our tamariki (children) from the cultural disconnection trauma experienced by their parents and grandparents. The findings from this article hold relevance beyond our whānau, extending to benefit all iwi (tribes) and whānau seeking to gain a deeper understanding of how to support their people on the journey of reconnection.

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reconnecting with Māoritanga, marae, whānau, whakapapa, cultural disconnection
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