The Power of Māori Language

Today, Māori make up 14% of the population and their history, language and traditions are central to New Zealand’s identity. But this is the result of years of effort by Māori for not losing themselves. In fact, this culture almost disappears. Therefore, it’s quite surprising to find a native people that is so nationally and internationally recognized.

However, beyond recognition with the Maori worldwide, either by the All Blacks doing the Haka or the recognized tattoo on their face called Ta Moko, personally what struck me most was the fact that they got that their native language, Reo Māori, is considered an official language of New Zealand.

In 1980, the Māori become aware of that their language was seriously threatened and decided to do something about it. That led them to hold a meeting that resulted in the creation of Te Kohanga Reo (language nests). This was an immersion program for preschoolers in the language, culture and values of the Māori culture. And is an important fact that the language nests are considered the most successful models of education in the world and are exemplified in many places working on language revitalization.

It is a reality that almost half of world's languages are endangered, in fact experts say that many of these will not pass to the next generation. However, there are many linguicide who say it is not a catastrophe and actually reducing languages facilitate communication and may be able to help build nations, even facilitating globalization.

For me, it is extremely important to empower indigenous peoples. If we compare the accomplishments of New Zealand, a country that gives greater relevance and importance to Māori culture and have achieved inclusion; Chile is left behind by light years. Hopefully come a time when we can talk about our country as a multinational and multicultural one.

Maybe we should start letting handshakes aside and start greet with Hongi.

Hongi, a traditional Māori greeting in New Zealand