The UK Parliament, for the first time has marked Girmit Day in recognition of the enduring legacy of British Fijians and in remembrance of the indentured labourers who crossed oceans and helped shape Fiji’s history and identity.
A post by the Fijian Government says the occasion reflects the growing international recognition of the sacrifices, resilience and contributions of the Girmitiyas whose legacy continues to live on through generations both in Fiji and abroad.
MP Sureena Brackenridge highlighted that her parents ang grandparents travelled 10,000 miles from Fiji to make UK their home.
She says today, British Fijians serve in the British armed forces, National Health Services, across public services, businesses and on rugby pitches across the UK.
Brackenridge called on the UK Parliament to recognize Girmit Day commemorating the arrival of the first indentured Indian labourers in Fiji in 1879 in honour of communities like British Fijians, who quietly and proudly help drive the UK everyday.
