The Maori Language Act of 1987 was a pivotal piece of legislation in New Zealand that recognized Maori language (Te Reo Maori) as an official language of the country. Here are some detailed points about the Act:
- Background: Before the Act, the use of the Maori language in public and official settings had significantly declined due to historical assimilation policies. The Maori Language Petition of 1972, led by Nga Tamatoa, was a significant step towards revitalizing the language.
- Key Provisions:
- Official Status: The Act officially declared Maori as an official language of New Zealand, alongside English.
- Language Rights: It provided rights for Maori speakers to use their language in courts of law and before certain tribunals, commissions, and authorities.
- Maori Language Commission: Established the Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori (The Maori Language Commission) to promote and protect the language.
- Impact:
- The Act marked a significant cultural and linguistic shift in New Zealand, acknowledging the importance of the Maori language in national identity.
- It spurred further initiatives for language revitalization, including language immersion schools (kohanga reo), Maori language media, and educational programs.
- Amendments: In 2016, the Maori Language Act 2016 was passed to further strengthen the status of the Maori language. This new Act:
- Repealed the 1987 Act and established Te Puni Kokiri (Ministry of Maori Development) as responsible for language strategy.
- Set up Te Matawai, an independent entity for Maori language development.
- Removed the legal obligation to provide services in Maori, focusing instead on community-led revitalization.
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