(1895-1994) – Maori Rights Activist
Dame Whina Cooper was born Hōhepine Te Wake, daughter of Catholic catechist Heremia Te Wake and Kare Pauro Kawatihi, of the Te Rarawa iwi, at Te Karaka, Hokianga in New Zealand. Widely respected amongst her community and across the world, Dame Whina Cooper dedicated her life to fighting for Maori rights. Through her activism she fought to protect the land of the Maori as well as advocating for equal treatment of the Maori in New Zealand society. Cooper is often referred to as ‘Mother of the Nation’ for all she has done to protect the Maori community.
‘I am no longer accepting the things I cannot change. I am changing the things I cannot accept.’
Lucy Hannah
