Background

This document summarises the decisions, tasks, volunteers and discussion about this topic during the National Digital Hui Jan 2019.

Discussion

A range of resources around Te Tiriti, Tino rangatiratanga and decolonisation were shared with the group. The tensions between Te Tiriti and Tino rangatiratanga were acknowledged.

Matike mai offers the potential for a constitution based on Te Tiriti and he whakaputanga; an indigenous declarations of rights. The values are very deeply connected to what XRANZ would want: looking after Papatuanuku and and each other. http://www.converge.org.nz/pma/MatikeMaiAotearoaReport.pdf

XRANZ could devise a decolonisation policy/strategy: something that translates to our process as well as our outcomes. It would need to be incorporated into our public face, our strategy, process and outcomes, and be visible in our actions. It was suggested that coordinators do decolonisation training, possibly alongside NVDA training, so that it becomes an integral part of how we work.

We need to remember that Maori aren’t a homogenous group. This means we are unlikely to find something that satisfies everyone. How do we acknowledge this while also finding a way to move forward with integrity?

It was suggested that XRANZ explore the possibility of providing financial support to Maori organisations already doing aligned mahi.

XR should be strengthening the Maori struggle and raising Maori voices. They should be centred, not just an add on. Consideration needs to be given about how to do this at a local level: how can we work in partnership and help their voices be heard?

Decisions

  • Create a Decolonisation Working Group which will discuss the this issue further.

Tasks

  • Values and Principles group will incorporate wording from the Decolonisation breakout room.

Volunteers

  • Coordinator: None
  • Team members: Maibritt (Wellington), Rowan (Christchurch)

Original notes