Reconnection with DNA: Policy and issues with direct-to-consumer DNA testing for indigenous Māori identity reclamation

Abstract

The disconnection of tangata whenua (indigenous people born of the land) impacts all social determinants. A clear sense of identity and connection to the land and culture is an important solution to this problem. The purpose of this research is to share a personal and whānau (family group) story of using direct-to-consumer (DTC) autosomal DNA genetic testing (GT) to determine ancestry and show others a potential path forward to identity reclamation. To fulfil this purpose and explain the policy context, the research examines historical assimilation policies of closed cross-cultural adoption, and the possibilities DNA technology offers for whakapapa (genealogy, lineage descent, family history) reconnection. This includes addressing two key research questions: How does DTC-GT facilitate reconnection to Māori identity and whakapapa for cross-cultural adoptees? What are the short, medium and long-term risks and advantages of DTC autosomal DTC-GT testing for iwi Māori? A bricolage methodology frames this research and draws on kaupapa Māori (Māori approach, principles, and ideology), autoethnography, and interpretive phenomenology, which are used to analyse academic commentary and key policy decisions. An autoethnographic layered practice approach presents insights and key findings by combining personal narratives with various media types, academic research, policy documents and popular culture. The research highlights how the implicit processes of policy-led assimilation and colonisation still need to be challenged today. Existing literature has identified the importance of giving Māori pathways to reconnect with their identity. The personal story shared explains how DNA technology offers a way to do that, but the research completed for this thesis demonstrates this approach has serious risks and limitations that require consideration before utilising this technology.