Tukua mai te reo: Ētahi whakaaro mō te pukapuka He Reo Wāhine
By The Wireless.
Angela Wanhalla is disrupting the narrative of our colonial history.
My high school education presented New Zealand history to me as objective truth. Despite being taught that Abel Tasman discovered New Zealand, I inherently knew that Māori had already inhabited these lands. My schooling focused on World War One and the Vietnam War, yet I failed to consider the personal relevance and the overlooked nuances of these historical events.
The cover of He Reo Wahine.
Photo: Unknown
Statues in parks and town squares commemorate Pākehā men, while documentaries often ignore diverse voices and perspectives. Although bias in the media is acknowledged, a similar critical lens is rarely applied to history. But history, ultimately, is shaped by human interpretation.
In a recent discussion with historian Angela Wanhalla, her book “He Reo Wāhine” uncovers hidden historical narratives, shedding light on the voices of Māori women in the 19th century. Angela, who traces her lineage to Kai Tahu and Ngāti Moki marae of Ngāi Te Ruahikihiki, collaborates with Lachy Paterson to present a treasure trove of historical insights rarely explored.
Your areas of interest and research methodology?
My historical research predominantly focuses on women’s and Māori history, rooted in my PhD work on a community residing along the Taieri River in Otago. Exploring colonial 19th-century views often neglect the presence of Māori women due to insufficient traditional historical sources. Questioning the validity of this narrative gap is crucial.
The extensive Māori archive: challenges and revelations.
The vast Māori archive contains a wealth of letters addressed to officials, reflecting varied interactions from intimate exchanges to advocacy against injustices. This rich collection is predominantly in te reo Māori, making it an underutilized but valuable resource for historians.
Unveiling Māori women’s voices in history.
Notable quotes from figures like Kataraina Kahuwahine challenge assumptions about 19th-century writers. Revisiting these archives illuminates the active role Māori women played in engaging with colonial authorities to highlight injustices within their communities.
Legacy and recognition.
While these women may be remembered within their communities, their presence in mainstream historical narratives remains muted. Embracing diverse historical perspectives, including those of Māori women, is vital to creating an inclusive historical narrative.
Empowering narratives through representation.
As a Māori woman and historian, my passion lies in highlighting narratives that resonate with diverse audiences. “He Reo Wāhine” aims to offer representation and admiration for readers, allowing them to connect with their ancestral roots and histories. History should be an inclusive space, ensuring that no one is excluded from their past.