In this podcast Elizabeth gives a keynote presentation at the hui.
Summary
The recording titled "Elizabeth Kerekere - Decolonise Your Minds hui" features a keynote presentation by Elizabeth Kerekere at a gathering held in Ponsonby, Auckland. The speech, delivered in February 2012, delves into the complexities of cultural identity, spirituality, politics, and gender identity against a backdrop of decolonization and personal growth.
In the talk, the speaker reflects on their life journey, from growing up in Gisborne, moving to Dunedin, and spending 20 years in Wellington before returning home. Telling personal anecdotes and utilizing their art, the speaker highlights the influence of various cultures and how one tends to embody multiple identities simultaneously, often leading to feelings of fragmentation. The notion of 'multiplicity' is addressed, and the speaker emphasizes the importance of embracing the many parts of one's identity.
Through personal experiences and artistic expressions, the presentation touches on various themes: spirituality, the sacredness of acknowledging both ancestral gods and one's ancestors, cultural identity, and the reconciliation of breaking away from violence associated with one's background. The speaker acknowledges the struggle of learning and embracing one's native language and imparts the importance of connecting with one's roots.
Regarding gender identity, the speaker shares their alignment with other Maori and indigenous women globally. They discuss the spectrum of gender, advocating for the respect and recognition of identities that may not conform to traditional binary frameworks.
A significant part of the presentation centers around the speaker's artwork, which serves as a medium to convey messages about the Maori experience, spirituality, and resilience against domestic violence. The speaker describes several pieces, including clay sculptures and woven representations, designed to resonate with their cultural heritage and reflect their identity and personal history.
One of the topics highlighted in the address is the transmission of historical trauma and the processes of healing. The speaker encourages one to peel back the layers of trauma to reveal and understand the deep-seated impacts of colonization and other life challenges. The notion of 'journey to healing' is manifested through their artwork, symbolizing the process of self-repair and reclaiming power over one's narrative and body.
Moreover, the speaker emphasizes the importance of nurturing the new generation, transforming family practices, and honoring the role of mothers in society. The speaker also recognizes how their artwork's placement in judicial and probationary settings can provoke profound emotional responses, acting as a catalyst for personal reflection and change.
In conclusion, the address advocates for creativity as a means of self-expression and healing. It is a call to embrace each facet of one's identity, honor personal history, and engage with cultural practices that foster a sense of belonging and self-understanding. The speaker leaves the audience with a Māori song and gratitude for their attention, while highlighting the ongoing work with various community groups and the desire to leave a legacy of building community, storytelling, and supporting others.
This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.
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