Language practices of Māori Deaf New Zealand Sign Language users for identity expression

Previous research examining Māori Deaf identity and NZSL neologisms expressing Māori concepts indicates that there is a desire among Māori Deaf people, in some measure, to express their identity linguistically (R. McKee et al., 2007; Smiler, 2004; Smiler & McKee, 2007). As yet, there is little detailed investigation of how this manifests in language practices. Applying Bucholtz and Hall’s (2005) theory of identity as a product of linguistic practices with a Kaupapa Māori approach, this thesis combines descriptive analysis of language and paralanguage contact points between NZSL and te reo Māori to reveal how innovative features occur in Māori Deaf discourse, with qualitative exploration of motivations and beliefs regarding how linguistic features are perceived to index Māori identity in NZSL. This study engages with a particular subset of Māori Deaf individuals who are actively involved in Māori Deaf networks and affairs, comprising a community of practice or kaupapa whānau. Analysis of data from language use samples and focus group interviews shows that in Māori contexts, Māori Deaf individuals use the following features: variation in pointing handshape, combining of Māori word mouthing with NZSL signs, sign neologisms with Māori reference, and marked pauses in formal public speaking. Metalinguistic discussions among participants indicate that these features may be consciously employed to construct a Māori Deaf identity in certain contexts. Findings from this research contribute to a currently limited collection of available research concerning indigenous Deaf populations, expanding knowledge of sociolinguistic variation in NZSL and of the relationship between variation and identity in signed languages generally.