September 21, 2015
Marama Davidson – a new generation of Maori leader
Marama Davidson – a new generation of Maori leader
MARTYN BRADBURY
Russel Norman standing down as leader of the Greens has opened the opportunity for Marama Davidson to step off the list into Parliament.
Not since Hone Harawira entered politics has there been so much promise for the voices of the marginalised and dispossessed to be heard in the corridors of power.
Davidson is a new generation of Maori leader. Mother of 5, she hails from Ngāti Porou, Te Rarawa and Ngāpuhi and has worked tirelessly in community minded organisations like Breastfeeding NZ, the Human Rights Commission, Manurewa Youth Workers Network, Te Whainga Wahine and the National Wahine Māori political activism network.
Her experiences at the coal face of organisations that see the reality of government policy and not the spin gives her an authenticity of opinion, but it is her social media power and activism that gives her networks of cross over support that has the potential to propel her and her concerns for social justice into the spotlight.
Where Marama differs from so many previous Maori leaders is her mastery of social media. She has one of the largest social media following of any Maori politician and her ability to lead debate in this all important new media gives her a huge potential.
Another strength is her ability to reach across the divided elements of the Left and bring unity. Her perspective is modern yet rooted in the strength of Maori culture and she is unapologetic when it comes to championing those who don't have voice.
Her optimism and kindness marks her out as a leader who can generate real change and consensus, she is a new generation of Maori leader who is confident without the need to offend while never compromising on her values.
Davidson is the best possible hope for a Maori leader who can be embraced by all NZ, the Greens are blessed to have her.
Martyn Bradbury
Editor – TheDailyBlog.co.nz
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