Timoci Biroko and Alumita Tabua embarked on a significant journey from Cawaira, a settlement near Labasa, to Suva this week to commemorate the 160th anniversary of Melanesian laborers arriving in Fiji. Cawaira, which was established by descendants of Solomon Islanders brought to Fiji in the 1890s, symbolizes a shared historical narrative filled with resilience and hard work.
The Cawaira settlement, like many others, has roots tracing back to Solomon Islanders who were recruited by sugarcane planters to work on Fiji’s plantations. One notable figure from this history is Jale Marata, who after retiring from the Labasa sugar mill in 1950, constructed a home on Mali Island, honoring his birthplace in Malaita, Solomon Islands by naming it “Marata.”
Currently, around 70 houses make up the Cawaira community. Residents, who proudly uphold their heritage, are eager to enhance educational and economic prospects for future generations, embodying the resilience characteristic of their ancestors. Biroko, who is now in his 50s and grew up in Cawaira, participated in a dialogue at the iTaukei Trust Board complex, where he and other Melanesian representatives discussed their ongoing struggles for recognition and equality in society.
Reflecting on their experiences, Biroko shared, “We were often discriminated against, excluded from society. The struggle continues, but we are determined to keep fighting for stability and a better future.” He emphasized the invaluable contributions made by their ancestors, who, despite being brought to Fiji against their will, significantly aided in the country’s development by building infrastructure and working on farms. Today, it is estimated that there are nearly 30 settlements of Solomon Islanders and people from Vanuatu across Fiji.
The history of these laborers is marked by the period between 1864 and 1911 when over 27,000 individuals were forcibly brought to Fiji through a practice known as blackbirding. Although these Melanesian communities have increasingly integrated into broader Fijian society, many still reside in informal settlements. In response, the government is taking steps to formalize these communities, acknowledging their resilience and the often-unknown contributions they have made.
During the anniversary events on Thursday, the Melanesian community gathered in Suva to reflect on their history and engage in dialogue with Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu. The Minister recognized the significant legacy of Fiji’s Melanesian descendants, stating that this marks the first time the government has formally acknowledged and sought to preserve their cultural and historical contributions. He expressed regret for the past neglect, emphasizing that “although your history is rooted in trauma, the anniversary theme, ‘Unshackling Our History: Restoring Melanesian History in Fiji,’ is crucial as we reshape our national understanding of your contributions.”
The government’s commitment to this cause was evident with a $100,000 allocation for the anniversary celebrations, which featured cultural processions and performances along Suva’s foreshore, symbolizing community pride and reflection on their shared history.
This celebration not only honors the contributions of Melanesian descendants but also represents a hopeful step towards greater recognition and inclusion in Fiji’s national identity. By acknowledging their past, the community can look forward to a future where their resilience and contributions are celebrated rather than overlooked, promoting unity and understanding among all Fijians.
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