Truth telling and voices of justice - personal reflections by Dr Mark Lawrence

The Thought Broadcast

In this episode, Australasian Psychiatry's Trainee Editor Dr Ed Miller of the Thought Broadcast interviews Dr Mark Lawrence who shares his personal experiences of racism and challenges growing up as a Māori in New Zealand. He discusses the impact of colonization on indigenous communities and the need for open conversations about racism. Mark also highlights the importance of addressing racism within the medical profession and the need for cultural sensitivity and understanding in psychiatric practice. He encourages everyone to be part of the solution and improve the system for all. Overall, Mark's story emphasizes the power of resilience, identity, and the importance of being present in the journey towards equity and justice.
Please note that this episode was recorded prior to the 2023 Australian Indigenous Voice referendum vote, and discussions do not take into account the results from this vote.

Mark (Nō Te Rarawa, Te Aupōuri, me NgāPuhi) has tribal connections to Taitokerau (Northland) is a general adult psychiatrist working in public health services in the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga, New Zealand. He is a recipient of the Henry Rongomau Bennett Memorial Scholarship and proudly received the PirikaTaonga in 2022, Ōwhata Marae (Rotorua) acknowledging our founding kaumātua, Mr Arama Pirika. Mark holds academic positions with the University of Auckland and Otago schools of medicine. He has teaching and research interests within Māori mental health. He is currently a director on the RANZCP board and senior medical specialist Union (ASMS)
Definitions:
Whakapapa - lineage or heritage to a region or lands and the most important for Māori connection to their tribes (iwi), subtribe (hapū) and whānau (family). Literally means the layers of generations.

Pirika Taonga - is a college award named after New Zealand first college Elder (Kaumātua) Arama Pirika - literally the Pirika Treasure

Tangata whenua - people of the land, meaning locals/tribes/sub tribes. As opposed to tangata tiriti - people who come after the tiriti (treaty) was signed 1840 - effectively Pākehā or Tauiwi (foreigners and their descendants).

Music: https://freesound.org/people/ShadyDave/sounds/277375/

Logo: Sidonie Prentice
Disclaimer:
This podcast is provided to you for information purposes only and to provide a broad public understanding of various mental health topics. The podcast may represent the views of the author and not necessarily the views of The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists ('RANZCP'). The podcast is not to be relied upon as medical advice, or as a substitute for medical advice, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and should not be a substitute for individual clinical judgement. By accessing The RANZCP's podcasts you also agree to the full terms and conditions of the RANZCP's Website. Expert mental health information and finding a psychiatrist in Australian or New Zealand is available on the RANZCP’s Your Health In Mind Website.