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Ramsden, I. (1990a). Moving on: A graduation address. Nursing Praxis in New Zealand, 5(3), 34-36. https://doi.org/10.36951/NgPxNZ.1990.009
Synopsis
Dr Irihapeti Ramsden, Ngāi Tahu/Rangitane (1946-2003) was a Maori nurse, educationalist, philosopher, and writer, who leaves an enduring legacy for the development of Kawa Whakaruruhau (cultural safety) both in Aotearoa New Zealand and globally. "The way in which people measure and define their humanity" (Ramsden, 1990a, p. 35) - is the central tenet of this article. "Moving on" was a speech given by Dr Irihapeti Ramsden to Diploma of Nursing graduands at Nelson Polytechnic on 17th November 1989. Ramsden brought together an appreciation of Florence Nightingale's achievements and legacy and our ongoing obligation to provide health services that are respectful and responsive to the humanity of the people needing those services. Of Nightingale, she said, "[i]t would seem appropriate to remember the woman who set up the British model of nursing which still underpins nursing in this country to some extent. We owe respect to Florence Nightingale" (p. 34).
The paper offered a revision of Nightingale's historical 'noblesse oblige' nursing ideology, where privileged people provided care to 'others' irrespective of nationality, culture, creed, colour, age, sex, political, religious belief or social status. To facilitate a reduction in health inequities and improve health outcomes for Maori, Ramsden recommended that the unique world views of Maori as tangata whenua (people of the land) and the new settlers, tauiwi (non-Māori), be established and recognised. She reiterated that "the reintegration of body, soul and the environment as envisaged in the Ottawa Charter are part of the Maori reality" (p. 35).
Most importantly was that Maori health (hauora Maori) - the most precious taonga (treasured possession) of all - be...