A video of New Zealand’s youngest MP, Hana Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, performing a haka in Parliament went viral. However, her maiden speech, in which she incorporated the haka, was a powerful statement of cultural pride and a commitment to her constituents.
In a historic moment, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, at 21 years old, has captured the world’s attention as New Zealand’s youngest Member of Parliament. Meanwhile, she delivered a powerful traditional Haka in parliament during her first appearance.
Maipi-Clarke, who belongs to the Māori tribe, made history by becoming the youngest MP in New Zealand’s 170 years of democratic governance. However, her impactful debut showcased her commitment to political representation and her deep connection to her cultural roots.
The Māori tribe is known for its rich heritage in New Zealand. It includes various ceremonial dances, with the Haka being one of the most prominent. However, the haka is a traditional Māori dance or performance with roots in warfare. It is a powerful display of strength, unity, and defiance.
There are many different haka variations, each with its meaning and purpose. Moreover, the haka performed by Maipi-Clarke was the Ngāti Toa haka, composed in the early 1820s by Te Rauparaha, a prominent Māori chief.
Addressing the Parliament, Maipi-Clarke directed heartfelt words to the Māori youth who may have felt disconnected from their culture. In addition, she encouraged them to embrace their heritage. “To the tamariki Maori who have been sitting in the back of their classroom their whole life. Whakama, waiting generations longing to learn their native tongue, to the tamariki who haven’t been to their pepeha yet. It is waiting for you with open arms,” she expressed. “Never fit in. You are perfect. You are the perfect fit,” she added.
A Speech For Change
The video of Maipi-Clarke’s haka went viral, garnering millions of views and sparking conversations around the world. Many people praised her for her courage and cultural pride. Although, others saw it as a challenge to the colonial legacy of New Zealand and a call for greater Māori representation in government.
Some members of the opposition walked out of the chamber during the haka, which was seen by some as disrespectful. Maipi-Clarke said that she performed the haka to honor her ancestors and to show her pride in her culture. The haka has been performed in the New Zealand Parliament on several occasions. However, this was the first time it had been done by a Māori MP.
