The commemoration of Girmit is a time to ponder about the sufferings that our forefathers went through, a time to reflect on the past and ensure that their struggles and sacrifices are not forgotten.
While officiating at the Girmit Day celebration at Subrail Park in Labasa today, Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Jovesa Vocea highlighted that this is a time to move on from the past and think of the future as it serves as an inspiration for many of us teaching us to work hard and never let our dignity be robbed by anyone.
He says Girmit represents the ancestral journey for many indo-Fijians as it connects them to their forefathers who endured indentured labour.
Vocea says understanding the Girmit history is crucial for the descendants in comprehending their roots and the experiences of their ancestors.
He says the indentured labourers suffered a lot under the British rule in Fiji however they stood for what they believed in.
The Assistant Minister says the Girmitiyas have contributed a lot to the development of the nation including the foundation of agriculture, particularly the sugar industry, education, politics, business, commerce and sports.
He says celebrations like this are crucial for raising awareness in Fiji and educating people about the Girmit era, and its significance in Fiji's history serves as a source of inspiration for social change.
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