New Zealand's Tuhoe people won personhood for their ancestral homeland Te Urewera, highlighting the rights of nature movement. The podcast discusses a performance art piece welcoming the White Tanyi Tribunal and the arrival of judges for a ceremony symbolizing colonization. It also covers police raids and arrests during negotiations, the impact of hackers in the fight for co-governance, and the reclaiming of land and communities taking responsibility for the environment.
New Zealand granted legal personhood to rivers and land, recognizing the intrinsic value and significance of the environment beyond mere ownership.
The historical reenactment ceremony in Ruatoki emphasized the trauma caused by colonization and Tuhoe's ongoing struggle for justice and recognition.
Deep dives
Recognition of Rights of Nature in Ecuador and New Zealand
The podcast episode discusses the recognition of rights of nature in Ecuador and New Zealand. Ecuador was the first country to add rights of nature to its constitution, acknowledging that nature has rights. New Zealand has granted legal personhood to rivers and land, making it a beacon of hope in the rights of nature universe. This recognition has led to significant changes in how these countries view and protect the environment.
The Performative Welcome Ceremony in Ruatoki
The episode explores a historical reenactment and performance art piece that took place in Ruatoki, New Zealand. Tame Iti, an elder, artist, and activist from the Maori tribe Tuhoe, organized this ceremony to welcome judges and highlight the terrifying impact of colonization on Tuhoe. The performance included burning cars, black smoke, and a symbolic crossing of the Confiscation Line, marking the land taken from Tuhoe. The ceremony had a profound impact, emphasizing the trauma caused by colonization and drawing attention to Tuhoe's ongoing struggle for justice and recognition.
The Return of Tuhoe's Homelands and Legal Personality for Te Urewera
The podcast delves into the return of Tuhoe's homelands, specifically Te Urewera, and the granting of legal personality to it. Te Urewera, previously controlled by the Crown, was given its own legal identity, recognizing its intrinsic value and significance beyond mere ownership. This decision, based on the rights of nature, marked a significant shift in how land is perceived and managed. Tuhoe's care for nature is defined by responsibilities rather than rights, emphasizing their deep connection and commitment to the environment. The episode highlights the ongoing challenges and negotiations Tuhoe faces as they strive to reclaim their land and preserve their cultural heritage.