In a captivating video, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke, New Zealand’s youngest Member of Parliament at just 21, delivers a stirring speech that has taken the internet by storm. Elected last October, she managed to unseat the highly respected Nanaia Mahuta, marking a significant milestone as the country’s youngest MP in 170 years.
Maori Heritage and Activism: Maipi-Clarke, a Maori herself, comes from a family deeply rooted in Maori activism. Her grandfather, Taitimu Maipi, is an active member of the Maori activist group Nga Tamatoa.
Passionate Advocacy: Her speech, delivered last month, is marked by a passionate promise to her constituents: “I will die for you… but I will also live for you.” This powerful commitment reflects her dedication to the people she represents.
Empowering the Maori Youth: Addressing Maori children facing challenges, Maipi-Clarke delivers a message of empowerment. “To the tamariki Maori who have been sitting in the back of their classroom their whole life, whakama, waiting generations longing to learn their native tongue, to the tamariki who haven’t been to their pepeha yet, it is waiting for you with open arms.” She emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness, stating, “Never fit in. You are perfect. You are the perfect fit.”
Community Engagement: Beyond her political role, Maipi-Clarke is actively engaged in her community. Hailing from Huntly, she runs a Maori community garden that educates children about gardening in alignment with the community’s lunar calendar.
Guardian of Maori Language: Despite her political position, Maipi-Clarke sees herself not as a politician but as a guardian of the Maori language. She firmly believes in amplifying the voice of the new generation of Maori.
Personal Impact in Parliament: Reflecting on her entry into Parliament, she expresses a personal connection to the issues discussed. “In only a couple of weeks… this Government has attacked my whole world… Health, taiao (environment), wai (water), whenua (land), natural resources, Maori wards, reo (language), tamariki, and the right of me and you to be in this country under Te Tiriti.”
New Zealand natives’ speech in parliament pic.twitter.com/OkmYNm58Ke
— Enez Özen | Enezator (@Enezator) January 4, 2024
Addressing Viewers: In a poignant moment towards the end of her speech, Maipi-Clarke shifts the focus from herself to the audience. “To every person that is watching from home… this isn’t my moment, this is yours.” She underscores the collective impact and importance of the issues discussed.
Social Media Influence: Beyond the parliamentary chamber, Maipi-Clarke’s influence extends online. With a substantial following of 20,000 on Instagram and 18,500 on TikTok, she effectively utilizes social media to connect with a broader audience and amplify her advocacy.
In essence, Hana-Rawhiti Maipi-Clarke’s journey and impactful speech showcase not only her political role but also her deep connection to her Maori heritage and commitment to empowering the Maori community, especially the youth. Her ability to blend traditional activism with a modern approach through social media makes her a unique and influential figure in New Zealand’s political landscape.