In the physical world, we know how to protect our marae and our whānau. Online, the “Pae” (the space of moving and speaking) is often invaded by those seeking to diminish our Mana through racism and hate speech.
When you are targeted for being Māori, the goal of the bully is to make you feel small, isolated, or “less than.” But in Aotearoa, your identity is your greatest strength. Here is how we protect it in the digital age.
1. The Strategy: “Don’t Feed the Taniwha”
Racist bullies thrive on your reaction. They want a “war” in the comments because engagement boosts their profile.
- The Reality: Engaging with a racist post tells the social media algorithm that the post is “important.” This pushes the hate speech onto the feeds of more Māori, spreading the harm further.
- The Power Move: Coordinated Silence. By refusing to comment or argue, you starve the bully of the “clout” they crave. You aren’t being quiet because you are afraid; you are being quiet to let the “trap” close.
2. Reclaiming Mana: The “Sane” Response Plan
Phase A: Tapu the Space (Protect the Wairua)
The moment you see racist harassment, stop. Do not read the comments. In Te Ao Māori, we understand that words carry power (Kōrero). Don’t let their “ducks” (hateful words) land on your water.
- Action: Use the “Restrict” function. They can keep shouting, but nobody else can see them. They become invisible.
Phase B: The Forensic Kaitiaki (Documentation)
Racism in Aotearoa is not just “bullying”; it is often a breach of the Human Rights Act and the Harmful Digital Communications Act.
- Action: Capture full-screen shots of the comments, the profile handles, and the timestamps. This is your Evidence Vault. You are gathering the “sticks” to build a legal fence around your whānau.
Phase C: Strategic Speaking (Reporting)
We don’t shout at the bully; we speak to the systems that can de-platform them.
- Netsafe NZ: Report specifically as “Racial Harassment” or “Hate Speech.”
- The Human Rights Commission: For persistent or severe digital racism.
- Police (call 105): If the racism includes threats of physical violence or “inciting hostility.”
3. Whānau Advocacy: A Power Script
When you are hurt by racist comments, use this kōrero to help understand the strategy:
That person is trying to steal my mana because they have none of their own. We aren’t going to argue with them in public—that’s what they want. We are going to stay silent online so their post dies. Behind the scenes, we are working with the law to get them removed. We don’t fight with mud; we use the sun to dry it up until it falls off.
If you would like a free download of how to deal with online racism email: kiaora@stayingsafeandsane.nz and put the kupu “online racism” in the subject line.
Staying Safe and Sane 