Treaty Of Waitangi in our Kura

Many teachers believe they are acting in the best interests of all the children in their care, their understanding of what is best for children is determined within their own Eurocentric world view which incorporates their own particular cultural perspectives on epistemology and pedagogy.(Bishop and Glynn 1999) This though well meaning is detrimental to our Maori children and continues to compromise them in the education system. Acknowledging the cultural differences is not enough one must also come to terms with Maori culture through a thorough understanding of the part played by ones own Pakeha ancestors.

There can not be a system of education that is entirely based on only one of the two ethnic groups.(Vasil 1988) As we move into the ecological paradigm, Maori can demand their philosophies and culturally inclusive concepts are included in all mainstream classes. This is our right as of article two in the Treaty of Waitangi.

The Treaty of Waitangi is the founding document of our nation. Consisting of four Articles, it is a living document. The First Article has Maori ceding Kawanatanga to the crown. This acknowledges one nation with two peoples.

In Article Two Maori have Rangatiratanga over all their taonga, which include their culture and tamariki. teachers need to first understand and then respect Maori kawa and tikanga if they are to be as effective as they can in their mahi. By taking a consultative approach if unsure a teacher will be seen in a more positive light within the Maori community.

In Article Three it states that Maori are to be protected by the crown. This includes the protection of Maori whanau in Pakeha communities and Maori tamariki in the kura. They have the right to be given the respect one affords to any legal partner. Our Tamariki are our taonga and failure to protect them is a failure to honour the Treaty. There is a long journey here if you look at the statistics of Maori suspensions.(Awatere 2001; Haines 2001)

The National Administrative Guideline (NAGS 1) refers directly to the Treaty of Waitangi stating clearly that the ‘school curriculum recognise and value the unique position of Maori in New Zealand society’.(M.O.E 1993)

‘Judged by the systems own standards many Maori Children are not being successfully taught in mainstream, and for that reason alone, quite apart from the duty to protect the Maori language the education system is being operated in breech of the treaty.’(Hirsch 1990). Schools and teachers must honour the Treaty through inclusive practices, planning and in respecting cultural differences. This is a very vital role essential to Te Ao Maori.

“Kua turu e nga roimata o Tawhirimatea kua akina e nga tai o te marangai o te uira e timu ana e pari ana ahakoa mau tonu nga kupu o te Tiriti o Waitangi e taea te whakataha.” (Kiriwi 1899)

The treaty has been rained upon by the rain, it has been exposed to the blast of the storm and the words of the Treaty of Waitangi are still clear, they can not be obliterated.