Kelera Oli, a proud descendant of Solomon Islanders, was deeply moved during a recent event when she spotted a photograph of her late father at a National Archives booth in Suva. This encounter took place during a two-day commemoration celebrating the 160th anniversary of Melanesian laborers’ arrival in Fiji. The photograph evoked fond memories for Ms. Oli, serving as a poignant reminder of her father’s lasting legacy.
Her father, Luke Oli, dedicated his life to teaching during the late 1900s, a time marked by colonial injustices faced by Fiji’s Melanesian population. He played a critical role in educating youth at institutions like St. Paul’s Primary School and St. John’s College, the latter established explicitly for the Melanesian community.
Over the years, the family experienced several relocations before eventually settling in Suva. Reflecting on her youth, Ms. Oli recalls the discrimination she encountered due to her Solomon Islander background, which made her feel like an outsider after moving to Suva. Despite these challenges, Luke Oli focused on the importance of education for his children, seeing it as a pathway to a brighter future.
“Seeing my father’s image brought back hope and a sense of restoration,” Ms. Oli shared. She acknowledged that while he may no longer be physically present, his lessons and values helped shape her identity. Surprised by the profound connection she felt to her heritage during the anniversary celebrations, she expressed a renewed sense of belonging, stating, “As we commemorate the Melanesian community’s arrival, I felt a renewed sense of belonging.”
The event also highlighted the historical context of Solomon Islanders in Fiji. The last group arrived in 1911, and while some returned home after their contracts, many chose to stay and form communities in locations such as Levuka and Suva. Unlike their counterparts in Australia, who faced deportation, those in Fiji managed to remain, although they continued to experience marginalization and struggled for recognition and integration within society.
Ms. Oli’s reflection on her heritage underscores a significant chapter in Fiji’s history, celebrating the resilience and contributions of her ancestors. It serves as a reminder that, despite the challenges faced, the legacy of the Melanesian community continues to thrive through descendants like her.
This story not only honors the struggles of the past but also highlights the power of heritage and education in forging a hopeful future.
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