Kelera Oli, a proud descendant of Solomon Islanders, experienced a poignant moment at a National Archives booth in Suva on Thursday. The event was part of a two-day celebration commemorating the 160th anniversary of Melanesian laborers arriving in Fiji. Seeing a photograph of her late father, Luke Oli, who dedicated his life to education during the colonial era, evoked powerful emotions and memories of his rich legacy.
Mr. Oli was a passionate schoolteacher in the late 1900s, guiding students at St. Paul’s Primary School in Naviavia and St. John’s College, which was established for the Melanesian community. Despite frequent relocations, Ms. Oli’s family ultimately settled in Suva, where she faced discrimination due to her Solomon Islander roots. During her youth, particularly after moving to Suva and attending Adi Cakobau School, she encountered challenges fitting into her new environment amid prejudice from some groups.
However, Ms. Oli remains grateful for her father’s teachings, which emphasized education as a pathway to success. “Seeing my father’s image brought back hope and a sense of restoration,” she remarked, reflecting on the indelible impact her father had on her and her siblings.
The 160th-anniversary event served to strengthen her connection to her heritage, fostering a renewed sense of belonging as the Melanesian community celebrated its history.
Notably, the Solomon Islanders’ presence in Fiji dates back to significant immigration waves, with the last group arriving in 1911. While many returned home after their contracts, some opted to stay, establishing communities in Levuka and Suva. Unlike their counterparts in Australia, who faced deportation, Solomon Islanders in Fiji were able to remain, albeit facing marginalization and challenges in securing land tenure.
The legacy of these communities continues through descendants like Ms. Oli, who honor their ancestors’ resilience and contributions to Fiji’s cultural tapestry.
This event underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the rich heritage of the Melanesian community in Fiji. As the descendants reflect on their struggles and triumphs, they pave the way for greater understanding and integration in Fijian society, fostering a future where diversity is embraced and valued.
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