Amokura Panoho - Freelance Writer / Contributor, BiograView
Whakarongo ki te reo Māori - Listen to the language
Te Wiki o te Reo Māori holds immense importance in Aotearoa's journalism and media landscape, promoting cultural integration, representation, and understanding. It plays a pivotal role in acknowledging and celebrating Māori heritage, fostering inclusivity, and supporting Māori language revitalisation. As te reo Māori gains prominence, journalism in Aotearoa has become more comprehensive and culturally sensitive, benefiting both Māori and non-Māori communities.
This transformation is evident across various media platforms, with journalists demonstrating a greater respect for Māori cultural nuances when reporting on Māori issues, including correct pronunciation of Māori words and place names. This shift is vital for the revival of te reo Māori as it sets the standard for mainstream New Zealanders, making them comfortable and accepting of the language. Radio and television presenters now incorporate Māori phrases and greetings in daily broadcasts, contributing to the normalisation and popularisation of te reo Māori. Māori journalists are also taking the lead in mainstream news segments which further aids in normalising its usage.
However, there is still more work to be done, and journalists are an essential part of that process of reclamation.
