Māori Language Week in September

When did the Māori Language Week in September start?

The first recorded date of Māori Language Week in September being celebrated on September 8 was in the year 1975.

About Māori Language Week in September Holiday

Māori Language Week is a festival of language and culture that takes place annually in Aotearoa New Zealand. This festival celebrates the revival of the Māori language and the diverse culture of the traditional Māori people. During this festival, the Māori language is brought to life and embraced through a wide range of activities, such as classes, cultural performance, and competitions. These activities aim to encourage individuals to learn the Māori language, while also getting involved in their local community. Events are held throughout the country, usually in schools or at community marae.

Māori Language Week is much more than just a holiday; it is a time of connection to culture, identity, and self-expression. During this week, it is hope that the Māori language is normalized and that it is celebrated and appreciated by all. The emphasis of this festival is on creating positive social change among both Māori and non-Māori communities. It is also intended to inspire and strengthen the language and bring together the people of Aotearoa.

Māori Language Week – Introduction

Māori Language Week is an annual celebration of the language and culture of the Māori people, held in September of each year since 1975. The holiday seeks to promote the use and preservation of the Māori language and culture, since it is an endangered language, with less than half of the 660,000+ Māori people in New Zealand being fluent speakers of the language. The event is celebrated in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and other countries with Māori language speakers, bringing together Māori speakers and those from other cultures to share their love for the language and culture.

Historical Context

The Māori language is one of the three official languages of New Zealand, and is spoken in New Zealand, Canada, Australia, and the United States. It is a language of the Polynesian family and is believed to be the first language of the Māori people, who are the indigenous people of New Zealand. Māori culture is an essential part of New Zealand and is visible everywhere, from the morning karakia (prayer) at schools and public places to the popular Māori culture that is celebrated around the world.

However, like many cultures across the globe, the Māori language and culture is threatened with extinction due to the rapid changes that have taken place in New Zealand’s social, economic, and political environment. This is why Māori Language Week was established to celebrate the language and culture of the Māori people.

Celebrations in New Zealand

In New Zealand, Māori Language Week is celebrated in a variety of ways. Schools are encouraged to promote the language in their classrooms with special language activities, cultural displays, and kōrero (traditional stories). The national radio station, Māori Television, plays programs in the language and runs special programs to share te reo Māori (the Māori language) with the public.

The national Māori Language Commission works hard to promote te reo Māori and to preserve the traditional language. During Māori Language Week, the Commission organizes cultural events, such as kapa haka (traditional performances) and waka ama (traditional canoeing).

Celebrations in Australia

In Australia, Māori Language Week is celebrated in much the same way as in New Zealand, with cultural and language activities focusing on te reo Māori and Māori culture. In particular, there are events held in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and there are resources made available to help indigenous Australians learn te reo Māori.

Māori language classes are held in many schools, universities, and community centers. There are also Māori language films, books, and other materials available to help people learn the language.

Celebrations in Canada

In Canada, Māori Language Week is celebrated in a similar way as in New Zealand and Australia. The Māori language is taught in schools and universities, and there are cultural events and performances to promote the language and culture. Additionally, there are resources available online and in libraries to help people learn about the language and culture.

In particular, the First Nations in Canada are very involved in promoting the language. There are special language programs in First Nations schools and universities, as well as cultural events and performances. Additionally, there are resources available online and in libraries to help people learn about the Māori language and culture.

Conclusion

Māori Language Week is an important celebration of the language and culture of the Māori people, held in September of each year. It is celebrated in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and other countries with Māori language speakers, and seeks to promote the use and preservation of the language and culture. During the event, schools, universities, and other organizations host cultural activities and provide resources to help people learn the language and culture.

How to Say "Māori Language Week in September" In Different Languages?