Introduction to the hui from Giang Pham, Wai Ho and Meng Zhu Fu.
Summary
In a 4-minute recording from an event at the Ponsonby Community Centre in Auckland, dated February 4th, 2012, speakers Giang Pham, Meng Zhu Fu, and Wai Ho offer an introduction to a hui aimed at 'Decolonising Your Minds'. This gathering is part of a larger movement to address decolonization, specifically within the context of the Aotearoa New Zealand of the 2010s. The hui serves as a platform to engage participants on issues of race, privilege, and the importance of creating solidarity among those facing marginalization.
The recording starts with a respectful acknowledgment of the ancestors of the land and the life force in the area. It continues with the presenters introducing themselves and explaining the purpose and background of the event. They encourage the participants to share what motivated them to attend the hui, implicitly recognizing the commitment required to participate over a weekend.
A brief historical context is provided, tracing back to a 2008 hui that highlighted the dominance of white voices and the inadequacies in addressing white privilege and racism within certain movements. To address these issues, a hui titled 'Women Engaging in Radical Decolonization' (acronym not specified in the provided text) was conducted in late 2008 and 2009, attracting around a dozen participants. The event created a unique opportunity for people of color to discuss critical issues without their dialogue being shaped by outside forces.
The current hui aims to continue these crucial conversations, with an emphasis on building solidarity and continuing dialogue on decolonization. Attendees are introduced to a set of ground rules or a framework detailed in their program to maintain the event's safe space. The speakers express an openness to feedback, acknowledging the potential of missing out on key issues due to their shared Asian backgrounds. They invite participants to approach them for discussions, welcoming any feedback that could contribute to their growth and the enrichment of the hui.
While the recording captures only a brief moment, likely not reflective of the full extent of the event, the introduction sets the stage for an environment of respect, introspection, and collective responsibility. The gathering is characterized by a conscious effort to foster a supportive and educational setting for attendees to explore complex issues related to decolonization and social activism.
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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