Editorial: Heritage has a part in healing

Culture is important. Photo/Thinkstock

I have a basic understanding of how not to make a show of myself on a marae. My tikanga Maori is not what I'd like it to be.

I've learned how to hongi and some Maori protocol. I do understand the importance of culture to an indigenous people though and how it leads to healing and dignity.

As an Irishwoman, I listened to my grandmother's tales of the Crown in Ireland in the early 1900s and the fear and anger she felt from a young age.

Her generation escaped into dance, song and culture.

Our lost language remains there, no matter how much funding the State throws at well-intentioned groups trying to revive it.

Thankfully, my generation was raised without animosity towards our neighbours across the water and there has been healing. When Queen Elizabeth II visited Ireland in 2011, I felt a wave of forgiveness and a warmth for her when she bowed her head in the Garden of Remembrance. Her gesture honoured the memory of the Irish who died fighting for freedom from British occupation. For many, the wounds of history healed that day and light beamed into the future. Heritage won't heal everything but it's a good place to start.

Northland boasts a rich cultural tapestry, which suggests that young people should be oozing with pride in their heritage, whether Pakeha or Maori.

Thankfully, there are professionals working with young Northlanders suggesting culture as a cure to the social problems they face.

I drive past the Terenga Paraoa Marae in Porowini Ave every other day but yesterday I was honoured to be welcomed onto the marae by the team at Ringa Atawhai Trust. It's interesting what you hear when you don't understand the language.

The speaker was proud. He lifted his head and his voice boomed when he spoke about his whakapapa. He softened his voice and smiled when he said the one phrase I understood.

"Whangarei pai!"