Indentured labourers' story is an important part of our shared history – Prof. Prasad

The story of the indentured labourers is marred by both time and tragedy and it is an important part of our shared history as a global community.

These were the sentiments of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad while delivering his speech during the Girmit Conference at the University of the South Pacific Laucala campus today.

Professor Prasad says this is a momentous occasion for us to reflect on the significance of Indian indenture in shaping the course of Fiji’s history and human history.

He says it is also momentous because this is the first time in Fiji’s history that Girmit Day has been declared a national public holiday.

Economic rights, and cultural and religious rights, or in short, it was the denial of their humanity.

He says colonialism was built on this systematic denial of humanity and that is why independence mattered so much.

The Deputy Prime Minister says the National Federation Party was so persistent in seeking Fiji’s independence.

He says for Indo-Fijians, Girmit connects us as it is the foundation of shared language, and interpretation of spirituality and is the foundation of their identity.

Professor Prasad also acknowledged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for initiating this idea of a national holiday and declaring this a public holiday.

President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere says while the story of the Girmitiyas is something well-known in Fiji and around the globe, there are some other aspects of the history in the lives of the Girmitiyas of which we are not aware.

Ratu Wiliame says it has been quite sad, rather unfortunate for all of us that our primary and secondary school’s curriculum does not give emphasis on our own history.

He further says there is an urgent need to review our primary and secondary schools’ curriculum to include all methods of significance for Fiji.

He also says the presence of Girmitiyas in Fiji raises hard questions for our communities mainly on the Indian presence in Fiji and their rightful place in our society.

Ratu Wiliame adds the wealth of diversity and inclusivity in Fiji continues to be learned with the presence of the Girmitiyas.

He says as we celebrate the diversity of our nation, we must also recognise that our differences make us stronger.

Ratu Wiliame says we must embrace our different cultures and learn from each other’s customs and beliefs.