From a Māori perspective, Ia (flow) is an integral part of the interconnectedness of all things. It is seen as a fundamental part of the natural order, and an essential part of the balance between Te Ao Mārama (the world of light) and Te Pō (the world of darkness).
Māori see gender as something that flows between people, rather than being fixed in one particular form. Gender is seen as a fluid concept that can be expressed in many different ways. This means that people can express their gender identity in whatever way they feel most comfortable with.
Gender roles can also seen as being flexible within Māori culture. Traditionally, there were specific roles for men and women, and still are... but these roles were not necessarily, rigidly enforced. Many occasions have been adapted to suit the needs of individuals & communities taking into consideration that varying hapū - sub-tribes, determined when & how this was to be. This does not at all dismiss the utmost importance of roles more broadly accepted by Māori to be specifically male or female. However, the critical factor is that there are many terms within te ao Māori that reference both the masculine & feminine simultaneously.
The concept of ‘ia’ is also important to Māori culture when it comes to gender. This idea refers to the idea that people are constantly changing and evolving over time. This allows for individuals to express themselves authentically, and to explore different aspects of their identity.
Overall, Māori culture provides a platform of thinking that encourages a healthy attitude towards gender.
The enabling piece of the puzzle, and perhaps the missing piece, is to explore how tikanga - Māori customary practices can enable gender fluidity & safety when approached through a non-colonised, Māori lens.
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