Assistant Minister for Women, Sashi Kiran, expressed optimism that the Truth and Reconciliation Bill will be presented to Parliament during the session in December. This announcement comes on the heels of the St Agnes Parish in Nabua starting trauma awareness workshops, under the leadership of Father Ioane Sigarara.
During a recent church service, Ms. Kiran praised Father Sigarara for initiating dialogue and fostering healing within the community. She acknowledged the lingering pain and emotions associated with past traumas, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about the impact of post-traumatic stress on individuals and families.
“Even when people refer to events that happened 40 years ago, it’s clear that there is still raw emotion; it’s crucial that we begin addressing this,” Ms. Kiran stated. She highlighted the generational trauma that persists, indicating an urgent need for understanding and discussion.
Furthermore, Father Sigarara noted that community members possess direct experiences of the mutiny and its aftermath, particularly since the 1987 coup. He explained that there has historically been little opportunity for open dialogue about the associated harms and trauma, describing it as a burden that inhibits progress.
“Our goal is to help individuals process their experiences in a structured environment, allowing them to connect with other survivors, find strength, and progress towards healing,” Father Sigarara added. The parish plans to launch a series of trauma awareness workshops, with 30 individuals expected to participate starting next week.
This initiative signals a hopeful step towards healing and reconciliation in the community, as it encourages open conversations about difficult past experiences and fosters a supportive environment for recovery.
In summary, the efforts by both Ms. Kiran and Father Sigarara represent a significant movement towards acknowledging and addressing past traumas, paving the way for community healing and unity.
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