Hawaiian presence and health initiatives
The focus on health initiatives was part of a recent conference in Hawaii
A research and presentation team from te Uhi attended the conference on Indigenous Women in Health in Hawaii from 3-8 August 2001.
Committee member Manu Neho was accepted as a speaker at the conference and will advocate the work being done by Te Uhi to promote the holistic nature of Ta Moko and its role within the health sector for Maori. Also attending are Tuhipo Gardiner of Rotorua, Lorna Dixon of Auckland and Mark Kopua of Tolaga Bay.
This support from Te Uhi signals an intention to prioritise healthy practices. Te Uhi will collate and publish a code of safe practice, and Te Uhi will advocate for practitioners. Senior practitioners have been generous with their time in assisting those entering the art form.
Te Uhi met in Rotorua at Tunohopu Health Centre on Friday 20 July and Saturday 21 July. Members present outlined concerns with strengthening support for the national forum and maintaining a leading role in advocating and promoting the artists and the art form.
Their next meeting is planned for Auckland in October. Members will report on progress within their own areas as well as planning a presence at the Aotearoa Festival in Tamaki, February 2002.