BACKOn Thursday, 19 March, Rangitoto College had the honour of welcoming back original members of the Polynesian Panthers as part of their “Educate to Liberate” initiative. For our Pacific cohort, this was more than just a history lesson; it was a chance to connect with the living legacy of a movement that shaped Aotearoa.
The day began with a powerful presentation to our Year 9 students during Period 2, where the Panthers shared the stark realities of the 1970s Dawn Raids. Following this, the experience transitioned into a deeply personal Period 3 workshop specifically for our Pacific students. This session allowed for the Vā to flourish—the sacred space where our rangatahi could kōrero directly with the elders about the courage required to stand up against injustice.
A recurring theme throughout the workshop was the idea that this history belongs to us. As our student leaders, Daniel (Lopo) Nai and Leila Curry, noted in their address to the staff, the stories of the Panthers are the stories of our own parents and grandparents. Listening to first-hand accounts of the Springbok Tour and the founding of the Panthers in 1971 reminded us that the activists who drove massive social change were the same age as our current senior students—just 16 and 17 years old.
The Panthers challenged us to consider our own roles as leaders in a new age of advocacy. They spoke about the importance of “staying in the fight” and how continuous support for a cause is what ultimately transforms a community. To witness our Pacific students engaging so deeply with these pioneers was an incredible experience.
Year 12 students Knox Tagaloa and Aysha Ireland thanked the speakers and highlighted that the visit left our Pacific cohort inspired to carry the activist torch, ensuring that the lessons of the past continue to fuel the leaders of our future.
— Pacific Tutor Class
