David Hanna is a fifth-generation Tangata Tiriti (people of the Treaty), a leader in community-led development, and the director of Wesley Community Action.

This conversation delved into addiction, trauma, social systems, and how grassroots initiatives can bring about meaningful change.

David challenges us to rethink how we address addiction, not just as an individual issue but as a symptom of broader systemic challenges.

We discussed:

The Role of Compassion and Judgment in Leadership

• David shares insights into his leadership philosophy, emphasising the importance of working at multiple levels of the system—from community practitioners to government ministers.
• He highlights the necessity of compassion without judgment and the dangers of "othering" marginalised groups.

Overcoming Bias

• A personal story about overcoming judgment that led to a discussion about unconscious bias, social conditioning, and the importance of openness and curiosity.

The Real Cost of Systemic Issues

• Spending on negative investment—prisons, addiction treatment, and care systems—rather than proactive community support.
• He argues that a healed society would redirect resources toward arts, environmental restoration, and whānau well-being.

Addiction: A Response to Trauma

• David reinforces the idea that addiction is often a coping mechanism for trauma.
• Highlighting the spectrum of addictions, from substance abuse to socially accepted addictions like workaholism.
• Childhood adversity and the intergenerational impact of trauma.

A Grassroots Solution: The Walk-In Initiative

• David shares the inspiring story of a community-led initiative where people affected by meth addiction create safe spaces to support each other.
• This grassroots effort has become a national movement, offering judgment-free support for individuals and whānau.

Looking Up the Microscope: Self-Reflection on Privilege

• David introduces the concept of "looking up the microscope", a practice where individuals in privileged positions reflect on their family history, wealth, and inherited trauma.
• This initiative fosters self-awareness and a deeper understanding of systemic inequities.

The Role of Māori Knowledge in Healing

• David emphasised how Te Ao Māori offers valuable wisdom in addressing social issues.
• He highlighted how integrating Māori perspectives into mainstream society benefits everyone and is an area where New Zealand is leading globally.

The Power of Presence and Balance

• Discussing the neuroscience of addiction and modern society's obsession with growth, David argues that a balance between action and reflection is crucial.
• He advocates for slowing down, creating space for self-awareness, and fostering a culture that values relationships over relentless productivity.

Final Thoughts and How to Support Wesley Community Action

• David closes by inviting listeners to explore Wesley Community Action's work at www.wesleyca.org.nz.
• He encourages involvement in Just Change, an initiative that fosters learning and action for systemic change.

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