Māori Language Act 1987

Definition

The Māori Language Act 1987 is a significant piece of legislation in New Zealand that recognizes the Māori language as an official language of the country and aims to promote its use and revitalization. This act is a pivotal step in the broader quest for Māori self-determination and tino rangatiratanga, providing a legal framework for the preservation and promotion of the language, which is integral to Māori identity and culture. The act also supports initiatives such as Kōhanga Reo, which are crucial for revitalizing Māori language among younger generations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Māori Language Act 1987 was a response to the declining use of the Māori language and aimed to revitalize it by establishing it as an official language of New Zealand.
2. The act established the Māori Language Commission to promote and support the use of the Māori language in various domains, including education and government.
3. One of the key outcomes of the act was the establishment of Kōhanga Reo, allowing Māori parents to immerse their children in the language from a young age.
4. The act not only aimed at increasing fluency in the Māori language but also reinforced the cultural significance of te reo as a vital part of Māori identity.
5. The recognition of te reo as an official language has led to increased visibility and respect for Māori culture within New Zealand society.

Review Questions

• How did the Māori Language Act 1987 influence efforts towards self-determination for the Māori people?
  • The Māori Language Act 1987 played a critical role in advancing self-determination for the Māori people by officially recognizing te reo as a national language. This acknowledgment allowed Māori communities to assert control over their linguistic heritage, fostering a sense of identity and autonomy. Furthermore, by supporting initiatives like Kōhanga Reo, the act enabled families to raise children in a culturally immersive environment, thereby promoting a future generation that values and speaks the Māori language.
• In what ways did Kōhanga Reo emerge as a response to the provisions set out by the Māori Language Act 1987?
  • Kōhanga Reo emerged directly as a response to the provisions of the Māori Language Act 1987, which aimed to revitalize te reo by promoting its use in education. These immersion preschools were established to provide children with an early foundation in the Māori language, ensuring that they grow up fluent and culturally connected. The act provided both legitimacy and support for Kōhanga Reo, leading to its expansion and recognition as a vital educational initiative for preserving Māori culture.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of the Māori Language Act 1987 on New Zealand society and its implications for cultural identity.
  • The long-term impact of the Māori Language Act 1987 on New Zealand society has been profound, fostering greater awareness and appreciation for te reo among all New Zealanders. This act not only contributed to revitalizing the language but also shifted societal attitudes towards respecting and valuing Māori culture. The implications are significant: as more individuals engage with te reo and understand its importance, there is potential for deeper reconciliation between Māori and non-Māori communities. This evolving dynamic promotes inclusivity while allowing for a richer cultural tapestry within New Zealand.

Related terms

Tino Rangatiratanga: The concept of self-determination and sovereignty for Māori people, reflecting their right to govern themselves and maintain control over their cultural identity.

Kōhanga Reo: A Māori language immersion preschool program that focuses on teaching the Māori language to young children, promoting cultural identity from an early age.

Te Reo Māori: The Māori language itself, which is central to Māori culture, history, and identity, and is recognized as an official language in New Zealand.