Jobaaj Stories
New Zealand's Parliament witnessed a dramatic session on Thursday as 22-year-old Hana-Rawhiti Kareariki Maipi-Clarke, the youngest MP in nearly 200 years, made a powerful statement against the Indigenous Treaty Bill. Representing Te Pati Māori, Maipi-Clarke passionately opposed the bill by tearing up a copy in Parliament while performing the traditional Māori Haka dance.
The session, meant to focus on voting for the Treaty Principles Bill, turned into a viral moment as Maipi-Clarke's bold action resonated with many. The Haka, a traditional Māori war dance, symbolizes strength and refusal, and her performance was soon joined by other members of Parliament, intensifying the protest.
White Man’s haka:
— Chud Eddy Arnold (@El_Gabacho_) November 14, 2024
>Show up in laughably small numbers
>’lol this will be easy-peasy’
>End up killing 80% of male members of village; zero casualties themselves
>Rebuild in image of civilization
>Provide for equal rights
>Suffer through cringe dances 100 years later https://t.co/pPXMCOtcgp
The Indigenous Treaty Bill draws from the 1840 Treaty of Waitangi, a foundational document establishing the relationship between Māori tribes and the British Crown. The treaty guaranteed Māori tribes broad rights to protect their lands and interests in exchange for ceding governance to the British. However, the proposed bill extends these rights to all New Zealanders, sparking controversy among Māori leaders and communities who feel their unique cultural and historical identity is being diluted.
Hana Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke has been a strong voice for Māori rights since her election in 2023. Known for her dynamic personality, she previously performed the Haka during her maiden speech in Parliament, symbolizing her commitment to representing her community’s values.
The fiery protest has brought global attention to the debate over the Treaty of Waitangi and the rights of Indigenous people in New Zealand. While some view Maipi-Clarke’s actions as a breach of parliamentary decorum, others applaud her courage in standing up for her heritage.
The viral video has sparked widespread discussion, highlighting the tensions between tradition and modern governance in New Zealand. Maipi-Clarke’s leadership at such a young age continues to inspire many, proving that youth can play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.
This incident marks another milestone in the ongoing conversation about indigenous rights and the balance between preserving cultural identity and addressing the needs of a diverse population.
