Whakapapa: Our Journey
Nau mai e te ao o awatea, uhia mai tō hā ki ēnei Mauri ora!
Welcome, world of light, embrace us in your breath - that sacred force which stirs the essence of life within us.
On this page
Why Unteach Racism?
Racism happens when people are treated unfairly because of their ethnicity. Sometimes it shows up in individual actions, and sometimes it sits within systems - in rules, policies, or everyday practices that unintentionally disadvantage some groups. In education, this can affect how tamariki and rangatahi feel about themselves, their learning, and their place of belonging.
We call it Unteach Racism because racism is not something we are born with; it is something that is learned. And what is learned can be unlearned. Teachers have the power to spark new ways of thinking: to notice bias, interrupt unfair patterns, and build spaces where every learner feels seen, valued, and included.
Since its launch in 2021, Unteach Racism has grown through teacher feedback, expert guidance, and a shared commitment to inclusive, culturally sustaining learning. It is a journey of transformation - not always straight, but one that moves gently between challenge and progress, discomfort and clarity, towards a future of belonging and courage.
The journey
2018 - 2019
Calls for guidance following the Human Rights Commission’s Give Nothing to Racism campaign and the Christchurch attacks
2019
Council approved the development of Unteach Racism
2021
Unteach Racism launched, championed by Taika Waititi
2024
Sector research and feedback gathered to improve programme
2025
Programme refreshed with new professional learning and resources
Kaupapa: Our vision and values
Unteach Racism is a professional learning initiative that supports teachers to:
- Reflect safely and honestly, without shame
- Grow professionally with confidence
- Build inclusive, culturally sustaining classrooms
- Champion equity and belonging across schools and communities
At the heart of this is a belief that every learner deserves to belong and to feel safe, seen, and valued. Teachers hold the power to disrupt inequity and lead transformation. Addressing racism, a systemic issue, is a shared professional responsibility.
This kaupapa is grounded in:
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi - through its commitment to the enduring relationship between Māori and the Crown as Aotearoa New Zealand’s foundational document.
- Our Code, Our Standards | Ngā Tikanga Matatika, Ngā Paerewa - affirming our professional responsibility to create safe, inclusive learning environments.
- The values of the Teaching Council - whakamana, manaakitanga, pono, and whanaungatanga.
Why is Teaching Council is leading this?
Racism exists in education - sometimes in obvious ways, often in subtle ones. It affects how tamariki see themselves, how they learn, and how they belong.
We’re doing this because:
- Te Tiriti o Waitangi calls us to act. We honour equity, partnership, and protection.
- Teachers shape society. They influence how young people see themselves, others, and the world.
- We have the reach. Teaching is the largest profession in Aotearoa New Zealand.
- We are independent. We can lead with courage and integrity.
- We’ve started and we must keep going. The profession is asking for more.
Unteach Racism is not about blame. It’s about recognising the power of teachers to lead change.
Our partners
Unteach Racism has been shaped by many voices, including:
- Human Rights Commission (NZ & Australia).
- Te Papa.
- NZEI, PPTA.
- Ministry of Education (Te Hurihanganui).
- Te Akatea.
- Tokona Te Raki.
- Cultural advisors, unions, and community leaders.
We continue to build partnerships that reflect tangata Tiriti responsibilities and diverse lived experiences.
Stay connected: My Rawa
My Rawa helps you deepen your practice with tailored professional learning and reflective tools. It’s your space to grow, stay inspired, and lead with confidence.
