In December 2024, the Len Reynolds Trust partnered with Community Waikato to host submissions parties aimed at opposing the Treaty Principles Bill. These gatherings were about more than writing submissions—they were a powerful act of collective advocacy, bringing together individuals and organisations from across the Waikato to stand up for the mana and intent of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
The submissions parties reflected our shared commitment to empowering communities, amplifying underrepresented voices, and ensuring that meaningful change comes from the ground up.
Why Opposing the Treaty Principles Bill Matters
The Treaty Principles Bill, if passed, threatens to dilute the intent and mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi by reducing it to abstract principles disconnected from the lived realities of Māori communities. At the Len Reynolds Trust, we firmly believe that Te Tiriti is a living document—a partnership that must be honoured and upheld, not undermined.
The submissions process gave us all a chance to stand together and express our collective opposition to this Bill. But we also knew that many people in our communities needed guidance and support to participate in this process. Writing a submission can feel intimidating, and many aren’t sure where to start or whether their voices will even be heard.
Creating Space for Empowerment
This is where the submissions parties came in. Together with Community Waikato, we created a welcoming environment where people could learn about the submissions process, share their thoughts, and receive one-on-one guidance to draft their responses.
The events were collaborative and inclusive, designed to make advocacy accessible to everyone. Whether someone came with a fully-formed idea or just a desire to learn more, we worked to ensure they left feeling empowered and confident in their ability to make a difference.
We provided resources, shared insights about the implications of the Bill, and encouraged people to draw on their own experiences to shape their submissions.
Amplifying the Message Through Media
To further extend the reach of this kaupapa, our Chief Executive Melissa Gibson was interviewed on FreeFM to discuss the Treaty Principles Bill and the submissions parties. This was an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of opposing the Bill and to encourage more people to get involved.
Melissa spoke with passion about why Te Tiriti matters, why the Bill poses such a threat, and how every voice counts in shaping the future of Aotearoa. The interview was a reminder that advocacy takes many forms, and sharing the story behind the submissions parties was just as important as hosting the events themselves.
The Power of Collective Advocacy
The submissions parties were a testament to the strength of community-led advocacy. Together, we stood in opposition to the Treaty Principles Bill, but more importantly, we stood for the enduring mana of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the rights of tangata whenua.
This initiative reinforced a few core truths:
Advocacy is for everyone. The submissions process should be accessible to all, not just those with experience or resources.
Collaboration makes us stronger. By partnering with Community Waikato and McCaw Lewis Lawyers and engaging with a wide range of voices, we were able to create a meaningful impact.
The fight for equity is ongoing. Hosting these events was just one step in the journey to protect Te Tiriti and uphold the values it represents.
Looking Ahead
At the Len Reynolds Trust, we are committed to walking alongside our communities in the fight for justice and equity. The submissions parties were a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together, share our stories, and take action.
While the Treaty Principles Bill is still a looming challenge, we know that the collective voices raised in December have made a difference. We’ll continue to stand firm in our commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to the communities we serve.
Ngā mihi nui to everyone who attended, shared their voice, or supported this kaupapa. Together, we are stronger. Together, we can protect what matters most.