Eleanor Thompson Dr Ingrid Huygens Recognised for Bridging Communities Through Treaty Understanding
Community psychologist and Treaty educator Dr Ingrid Huygens has been acknowledged for her decades-long work promoting Te Tiriti o Waitangi awareness, particularly among non-Māori communities. The Dutch-born advocate, co-founder of the Tangata Tiriti – Treaty People education programme, received the honour for her service to education and Māori, while issuing a stark warning about current legislative challenges to Treaty partnerships.
A Lifetime of Advocacy
Huygens began her work as a Pākehā Treaty educator in 1989, responding to growing demand from migrant and refugee communities seeking clarity on Aotearoa’s founding document. In 2000, she helped organise a landmark national conference uniting diverse communities in support of Te Tiriti, laying the groundwork for her ongoing educational initiatives.
Her programmes, developed alongside Māori leaders, focus on historical truth, structural racism, and practical partnership-building between Māori and non-Māori.
Current Work: Te Tiriti in Our Languages
In 2022, Huygens co-launched an initiative providing Treaty education materials in over 25 languages, including NZ Sign Language. The programme has gained traction among communities seeking to address colonisation’s legacy and support Māori aspirations.
Critique of Treaty Principles Bill
Accepting her award, Huygens condemned proposed legislation undermining Te Tiriti, calling it a threat to shared governance and the rule of law.
Legacy and Next Steps
Huygens credits Māori mentors for shaping her approach, emphasising collective effort in Treaty work. Future plans include digital course expansions and youth-focused curricula.
Summary: As debates over co-governance intensify, Huygens’ award highlights the vital role of cross-cultural education in honouring Te Tiriti’s constitutional promise.
Key Takeaways:
- Award Significance: Recognises non-Māobi leadership in Treaty education.
- Legislative Risks: Experts warn current bills could erode Māori-Crown partnerships.
- Grassroots Impact: Multilingual resources empower diverse communities to engage with Te Tiriti.
