Monica Willson, Freedom

Description

Monica Willson Freedom Photography 310 x 385 mm Ko Kakepuku tōku maunga Ko Waipa tōku awa Ko Tainui tōku waka Ko Ngāti Maniapoto tōku hapu Ko Kaputuhi tōku marae Ko Searancke tōku whanau Ko Monica Willson tōku Ingoa. These photos are from a series documenting the peaceful protest and occupation at The Beehive in 2022, where people gathered to protest against the COVID-19 mandates imposed by the government of the time. The images capture the hopeful and united spirit of the crowd, with people from all backgrounds coming together with a shared intent to peacefully raise awareness and challenge the mandates. Vibrant banners and hand-made signs express their messages, while moments of solidarity—such as groups sharing food and engaging in conversation—reflect the sense of community. The photos focus on the peaceful occupation of the space, where tents and makeshift shelters transformed The Beehive into a symbol of collective action. However, the series also subtly hints at the rising tensions that would later lead to televised violence, contrasting the initial peaceful intent with the shift in atmosphere as the protest progressed.