Te Pāti Māori launches Mana Takatāpui Policy
Te Pāti Māori has today launched its Mana Takatāpui Policy, committing $200 million over three years and establishing an independent, Takatāpui governed Commission with real authority over Takatāpui specific funding.
Te Pāti Māori Co Leader Rawiri Waititi says the policy is built on a simple principle: Nothing about Takatāpui without Takatāpui.
“For too long, decisions have been made about Takatāpui without Takatāpui. Our policy changes who holds the power,” Waititi said.
“We are not creating another advisory group that Government can choose to listen to or ignore. We are establishing an independent Takatāpui governed Commission with authority and guaranteed, ring fenced funding.”
The policy commits $200 million over three years across healthcare, mental health, housing, safety, education and culture, while investing directly in Takatāpui led organisations.
It includes gender affirming kaupapa Māori healthcare, Takatāpui led mental health and suicide prevention, safe housing pathways, protection from violence and hate, stronger cultural connection, and safer education pathways.
“Takatāpui have always been part of us. They are our tamariki, our mokopuna, our aunties and uncles, our cousins, our kaumātua and our whānau.
“This is rangatiratanga in practice. Not simply asking our people what they need, but giving them the authority and resources to build it.
“Our message to our Takatāpui whānau is simple: you belong. You are Māori. You are whole. You carry whakapapa, tikanga and mana.”
