This passage stood out to me as Aboriginal media highlights that language is not meant to be the same, it is proof of self determination, as mentioned. It is always evolving, shaping, and reflecting the cultural identity over time. The use of “shapeshifter” sticks out to me, I feel that it shows that no matter what happens over time, we are always going to be able to adapt to the times or situations no matter what, it reminds me of the true resilience that many people, especially ʻōiwi peoples have. It also shows how indigenous artists can use media to take back stories, control identities, and show our true selves.

Media cosmology stood out to me. I like how it talks about how media is used as a connection to language, culture, land, spirit, history, and how it relates to balance, unity, cycle. The Western lens can see media as more of a machine, or a tool to use, whereas the Indigenous lens sees media as something that can be a living system.

I view this as how important it is to move beyond the Western frameworks when reviewing media, understanding that indigenous perspectives offer a different, yet complementary understanding. It is not better or worse, it’s just different. The big difference is that the Western world sees media as something that separates humans from nature/technology, an Indigenous perspective sees media the same way we view land, full of life, spirit, it connects everything. The indigenous worldview sees the whole thing, it’s not separate.

This passage has also stuck out to me as it is something that I thought about when reading this. Technology, even though it is made out to be something that can disconnect us, can actually unite us. Physical presence is increasingly difficult, with work, relocating, even illness, etc. Many Māori, just like kanaka, struggle to return home. With technology, it can connect us and make sure that diaspora kanaka are involved in the conversation. Instagram accounts like @hawaiiandiaspora aim to create inclusive spaces for kanaka who live outside of Hawaiʻi.

This sentence really stuck out to me as the reader, it really showed how technology can be involved in supporting indigenous cultural practices. Livestreaming this event ensured that members who couldn’t attend in person, could still participate. It shows how Māori are using technology to maintain connection, uphold tradition, and more. It makes me think of how we can show up for lāhui using media.

Social networking sites are becoming valuable tools for Māori, and this I feel can also relate with a lot of indigenous peoples, as it can help Māori connect with their whakapapa, as well as a lot of kanaka, like myself research my own moʻokūʻauhau. As well as language, arts, etc. Media can be a great tool to build identity, and as well as engage with others, it is proof of self determination as well as cultural pride in the modern age.