Labasa businesswoman Amelia Simmons emphasizes the necessity for a neutral and comfortable environment that encourages people to share their stories during the reconciliation process. Speaking to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s steering committee, she noted that the current process has led to a resurgence of nationalism and an increased focus on ethnic issues.
Simmons remarked, “People are starting to think of divergence,” highlighting the challenges in fostering unity. To ensure the success of the commission, she advocated for the creation of a safe space where individuals can freely express their experiences. She recommended enlisting civil society and other key stakeholders to help facilitate this environment, while also stressing the critical importance of confidentiality to encourage honesty and openness.
She shared her observations on how discussions often take place informally among friends, saying, “People sit around the grog bowl and talk about these incidents, and usually during times like this, it will not be easy for them to share their stories.” Simmons called for a setting where individuals feel comfortable and unafraid to share their narratives.
In response, steering committee chairperson Sashi Kiran assured that the commission would prioritize creating a safe and inclusive space, accessible to all ethnic groups.