On August 1, 2021, the New Zealand Government issued an apology for the Dawn Raids, which took place from the 1950s to 1970s.
The Teu le Va - Dawn Raids History Community Fund will continue to assist with the healing process for Pacific peoples by supporting initiatives that generate, preserve, raise awareness and pass on knowledge of this time in history.
Starting today, the Ministry for Pacific Peoples (MPP) will be accepting applications for this fund, which is part of the Dawn Raids apology by the New Zealand Government.
Minister for Pacific Peoples Hon Aupito William Sio says successful applicants will receive a grant to support initiatives enabling individuals, artists, historians, and community groups to tell their own stories and experiences of the Dawn Raids.
“This gesture is part of the reconciliation process, which will also help us capture a comprehensive historical account of the Dawn Raids,” Minister Sio says.
When creating the Teu le Va - Dawn Raids History Community Fund, there were several objectives front of mind, he continues.
“Significantly, it allows for a healing process to take place, through storytelling, for those impacted by the Dawn Raids.
“It also assists to increase understanding and appreciation of the history of Pacific communities in New Zealand; informs educational resources; and ensures Pacific languages, cultures, and identities in New Zealand thrive.”
Applicants may apply by submitting a history initiative proposal for up to $5,000.
Initiatives must generate, preserve, raises awareness, and/or pass on Pacific knowledge, experiences, and histories of the Dawn Raids.
A range of storytelling methods may be used, including written and oral history collection; music, dance or performing arts; visual or graphic arts, including sculptures, paintings, exhibitions, moving image; and other creative art forms.
“All the aims of this wonderful initiative contribute to our Lalanga Fou goals, to establish a prosperous Pacific Aotearoa, aware of its past and focused on its future,” Minister Sio says.
The Teu le Va - Dawn Raids History Community Fund closes at 5pm on February 4, 2022.