Ivy League seeks Indigenous lens on Takatāpui

Nicholas Jones of Ngāi Tūhoe and Ngāpuhi descent, is a PhD scholar at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland’s James Henare Research Centre. His research focuses on Takatāpui data sovereignty where he explores the dynamics of Takatāpui mātauranga and privacy.

In recognition of the importance of Indigenous voices, prestigious Ivy Leage university Dartmouth College in the United States has invited Nicholas to be a guest lecturer, identifying the gap in understanding Indigenous knowledge, and the ever-evolving concept of Takatāpuitanga.

Takatāpui is a Māori term that encompasses the LGBTQ+ community, but from an Indigenous lens.

“It will provide insights into the evolving landscape of Takatāpui and their role in challenging colonial gender and sexual constructs,” Nicholas says.

“The lecture will also delve into traditional stories and colonial experience of Takatāpui, how the term has evolved over time to become more inclusive and diverse, how Takatāpui have formed community in New Zealand society, and its role in challenging established gender and sexual paradigms.”

The aim of Nicholas’s research is to establish new ethical data handling practices that ensure the protection of Takatāpui data and highlight how groups entrusted with takatāpui information can work in ways that provide benefit to the community.
 

Associate Professor Marama Muru-Lanning, Director of the James Henare Research Centre, set Nicholas on his current trajectory.

“Marama’s guidance has been pivotal to my academic development. I’m extremely grateful to her for all her support and the opportunities I’ve been provided.”

Driven by a profound passion for history, Nicholas's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in history, with a minor in art history. He then undertook a masters in Asian studies. Under Marama’s mentorship, Nicholas then embarked on his PhD.

He says his visit to Dartmouth College is not just about delivering a lecture, but also a chance to connect with Indigenous students and communities.

“I look forward to attending networking events, and exploring potential collaborations with Indigenous groups, bridging cultural divides and advocating for Indigenous voices on a global stage.”

Nicholas remains open to the idea of any future involvement with Dartmouth College while staying firmly rooted in his commitment to the communities he serves in Aotearoa New Zealand.

“There’s still much more to do for Indigenous communities here,” he says.

Jones comes from Whakatāne where he initially pursued a career in hairdressing.