Integrating Information Literacies with Indigenous Paradigms

Abstract

In this paper I will examine how information literacies might better support the indigenous world view of the Māori people.

In Aotearoa, New Zealand the written word was acknowledged by the Māori people as a means of enhancing prestige, authority and control, status and influence, power and charisma. This technology saw the creation of ‘He Whakaputanga - a Declaration of Independence’ (1835) by the Chiefs of the Māori people, Te Tiriti o Waitangi - The Treaty of Waitangi (1840) a partnership between Māori people and the English Crown, and a host of scholarly writings about every aspect of Māori life, customs and lore.

In the modern era, information literacy plays a vital role in negotiations between the two treaty partners. Treaty claims and their subsequent settlement are dependent on the ability of iwi Māori (Māori nations) to provide historical evidence of their customary rights. The Governments’ negotiators must also verify this evidence and both parties must agree on the final settlement.

Post settlement requirements include a letter of introduction by the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations. The letter is sent to libraries, archives, museums, galleries and other information repositories and urges that any items or artifacts deemed relevant to iwi Māori are identified and made accessible or available.

My work place, the Archive of Māori & Pacific Sound (formerly known as the Archive of Māori and Pacific Music), was contacted in this manner and in accordance with the request, a research project...