We cannot and must not allow discrimination to exist in our homes, workplaces, or institutions.
Those were the words of Attorney General, Graham Leung as he spoke to principals, teachers, parents and students at Vunimono Community Hall to mark International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.
Leung says building a better Fiji starts with each and every one of us.
He says we can help by treating everyone the same regardless of their race or background; spreading love; speaking up if you see racism or bullying; speaking out against discrimination when you see injustice; celebrating diversity; learning about other cultures; trying new foods; and learning to appreciate the beauty in our differences.
He also quoted the late Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi saying “it is time to move forward together. Stronger for the bitter experiences we have shared, wiser for the suffering inflicted on us and more compassionate for having the capacity to forgive.”
Leung says while we can acknowledge that we have made some progress, we must also recognize that we must work harder at removing discrimination or perceptions of discrimination — in the way opportunities are distributed, in economic disparities, and in the biases that sometimes creep into our institutions.
The Attorney General says we cannot ignore these realities but today is not just about acknowledging problems — it is about committing to solutions.
He believes the politics of race is limiting but what we should be doing more as a country.
That means reducing poverty, finding jobs for our young people and improving the state of our hospitals.
Leung says we must challenge our own biases, and we must ensure that inclusivity is reflected in every aspect of our society — not just in our schools and workplaces, but also in sports, arts, and performance.
He says in education, we must ensure that children of all backgrounds learn side by side, sharing experiences that shape them into adults who see each other as equals.
The Attorney General says in employment, we must remove barriers so that everyone, regardless of their background, has the same chance to succeed and in sports, we must celebrate the way our national teams bring us together.
He says our rugby teams, for example, are a testament to the power of unity — players from different backgrounds coming together under one jersey, representing one nation, and making us all proud.
Leung adds in the performing arts, groups like Vou Dance Fiji have shown how blending traditions from different cultures can create something truly spectacular — performances that are rooted in our shared identity but take inspiration from all the cultures that make up Fiji.
He says when we ensure that everyone, regardless of ethnicity, has equal opportunities to participate, to lead, and to excel, we move closer to a Fiji that truly reflects the ideals of fairness and equality.
He says his belief is that you should grow up understanding and believing that diversity is a gift, not a threat.
Leung says the more we interact closely, the more we know someone of a different race, religion, background – we will have a little bit more of care and understanding each time we practice tolerance and understanding.
He adds his vision is for a Fiji where race is not a barrier, but a bridge, a Fiji where no child is made to feel lesser because of their ethnicity and a Fiji where we celebrate our differences but never allow them to divide us.
