Across the vast tapestry of indigenous cultures worldwide, a profound and timeless connection binds us together—a connection rooted in our shared reverence for the environment, the sacred waterways that flow through our lands, and the steadfast dedication to preserving our ancestral traditions.
We stand as the guardians of our Earth, entrusted with the responsibility to honour and protect the natural world for generations yet to come. In our hearts, we carry the wisdom of our ancestors, their teachings echoing through time, guiding us in our journey to nurture and sustain the rich tapestry of indigenous heritage.
Within the intricate web of indigenous philosophies, Maori shine brightly as a beacon of unity and understanding. Our ethos of kaitiakitanga, the concept of guardianship and stewardship of the land, mirrors the values cherished by many indigenous cultures worldwide. The Maori people's profound respect for the interconnectedness of all living beings and our deep-rooted belief in the importance of preserving traditional ways resonate deeply with many other indigenous communities across the globe.
We invite all indigenous nations to walk hand in hand with us, as we find solace in the shared commitment to safeguarding our planet, honouring our ancestors, and nurturing the hearts and minds of our youth.
Together, we stand as a testament to the enduring strength and resilience of all indigenous cultures, united in our unwavering dedication to upholding the sacred bond between humanity and the natural world.
In this harmony of spirituality and shared values, we find hope for a brighter future—a future where the echoes of our ancestors continue to guide us, and the flame of indigenous wisdom burns brightly for all to see.
"He aha te mea nui o te Ao? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata."
"What is the most important thing in the world? It is people, it is people, it is people."
"He aha te kai o te rangatira? He kōrero, he kōrero, he kōrero.
"What is the food of the leader? It is knowledge, it is communication, it is conversation."
"He aha te kai o te ngāhere? He tangata, he tangata, he tangata, he kai, he kai, he kai."
"What is the food of the forest? It is people, it is people, it is people, it is food, it is food, it is food."
This whakataukī (Maori Proverb) beautifully intertwines the significance of people, knowledge, communication, and the natural environment. It emphasizes the interconnectedness between humanity, wisdom, and the forest, highlighting the importance of both people and the environment as essential elements for sustenance, growth, and harmony.
In the context of uniting indigenous cultures globally, this proverb underscores the shared responsibility of all people to care for and protect our natural environments while fostering unity, respect, and collaboration among diverse cultures around the world.
