Oriini Kaipara, a trailblazing TV presenter from New Zealand, has shown remarkable grace and strength in the face of online trolling.
With her traditional Māori face tattoo, Kaipara has become a symbol of cultural pride and identity, breaking barriers as the first primetime TV news bulletin presenter with a moko kauae.
When a viewer, David, sent a disparaging email criticizing her tattoo and use of the Māori language, Kaipara responded with dignity and courage.
She shared the exchange on Instagram, addressing the issue head-on and correcting David’s mispronunciation of “moko.”
Kaipara’s email response was a powerful statement against discrimination and bias. She emphasized that her existence and cultural expression are not threatening and deserve respect. While acknowledging the occasional harsh comment, Kaipara stressed that she receives mostly positive feedback and encouraged greater Māori representation in key roles.
Kaipara’s unwavering pride in her heritage and unapologetic embrace of her identity serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural resilience. Her story inspires us to celebrate our differences and challenge discriminatory attitudes, promoting a more inclusive and accepting society. Share your thoughts on this inspiring story!
