Timoci Biroko and Alumita Tabua embarked on a significant journey from Cawaira, a settlement near Labasa, to Suva to commemorate the 160th anniversary of the arrival of Melanesian laborers in Fiji. Cawaira, originally settled by descendants of Solomon Islanders in the 1890s, serves as a testament to their resilient and hardworking legacy.
The history of Cawaira and similar settlements stems from the practice of bringing Solomon Islanders to Fiji as laborers for sugarcane plantations. One notable figure, Jale Marata, after retiring from the Labasa sugar mill in 1950, built a home on Mali Island, naming it “Marata” in honor of his birthplace in Malaita, Solomon Islands. Today, the descendants of these laborers continue to thrive in villages like Cawaira and Vanuavou, consistently working to improve their circumstances.
During a dialogue at the iTaukei Trust Board complex, Biroko, now in his 50s, met with the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu. They discussed the ongoing challenges faced by the Melanesian community regarding recognition and equal opportunities. Reflecting on their struggles, he emphasized their determination to fight for a stable and prosperous future.
Cawaira currently has about 70 houses, and its residents cherish their heritage, aiming to enhance educational and economic prospects for future generations. Mr. Biroko remarked on the contributions of his ancestors, stating they endured forced relocation yet played an essential role in Fiji’s development by building infrastructure and working on farms. Presently, there are nearly 30 settlements of Solomon Islanders and Vanuatu people across Fiji.
Between 1864 and 1911, over 27,000 individuals from New Hebrides, Solomon Islands, and Kiribati were brought to Fiji through a system known as blackbirding. Despite integrating into Fijian society, many of these communities continue to live in informal settlements. In recognition of their resilience, the government is making efforts to formalize these communities and properly acknowledge their contributions, which have previously gone unnoticed.
As part of the anniversary events, the Melanesian community in Suva reflected on their shared history and met with Minister Vasu, who recognized the legacy of Fiji’s Melanesian descendants. He apologized on behalf of the government for years of unacknowledged contributions while emphasizing the need to reshape national understanding of their history. The theme of the celebration was “Unshackling Our History: Restoring Melanesian History in Fiji,” underlining the importance of acknowledging their past.
The Government has allocated $100,000 for the anniversary celebration, which included cultural processions and performances at Suva’s foreshore, fostering community pride and reflection.
This anniversary symbolizes a significant step towards reconciliation and recognition of the contributions of Melanesian communities in Fiji. It highlights the importance of addressing historical grievances while also looking forward to a more inclusive future for all Fijians.
Summary:
Timoci Biroko and community members marked the 160th anniversary of Melanesian laborers in Fiji with a significant gathering in Suva. They reflected on a shared history of resilience stemming from forced labor and discussed ongoing challenges for recognition and equal opportunities within society. The government acknowledged these historical contributions and pledged to support the formalization of Melanesian communities. The anniversary events celebrated cultural heritage and signified a hopeful step towards a more inclusive future in Fiji.
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