Fijian-Indian youth in Aotearoa forge a new sense of identity and pride
While their journeys differ in the fact that the Indian community began arriving in Fiji 140 years ago, Fijian-Indians have also adapted and assimilated to living in Fiji. Having assisted in directing a video for Pasefika Proud, Shakeel Khan says his participation was an eye opener for him.
“The aim was to bring people together for a talanoa, discussing our own respective journeys and the complexities involved,” he says.
Shakeel felt a sense that those living in Fiji were looked down upon from those born and raised in New Zealand. The video provides some context of the history and migration journey of Indians from India followed by those who went to Aotearoa as descendants of ancestors who were twice displaced with traumatic experiences of migration journeys.
“I’ve seen bullying at school and recognised the impact on the cultural identity of the youth, who are either New Zealand-born or are the 1.5 generation who migrated very young with their families.”
NOTES TO VIDEO
The video provides a brief context of the history and migration journey of Indians from India to Fiji and then to Aotearoa New Zealand. As descendants of ancestors who are twice displaced with traumatic experiences of migration journeys, this has impacted on the cultural identity of youth who are either New Zealand born or are the 1.5 generation who migrated very young with their families.
Surrounded by Pacific values and protective factors of resilience, community, respect, safety and strengthened cultural identity which provides young people with coping strategies to keep safe and lead violence free lives.
Some key themes in the video are the role and importance of family in the young people’s lives and the importance of maintenance of culture and language which contributes to strengthening of one’s identity.
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Pasefika Proud Pathways for Change 2019 - 2023
Pasefika Proud is a social change movement – ‘by Pacific for Pacific’ – to boost wellbeing for Pacific families and transform attitudes, behaviours and norms that enable violence. Our name and strapline embody our strengths-based, community-led approach.
Pasefika Proud Vision: Pacific families and communities are safe, resilient and enjoy wellbeing through social connections, healthy and happy lifestyles, cultural identity, personal security and safety, spirituality.
Pasefika Proud change strategies: mobilising pacific communities + capability development + strategic priorities.
Download – Pasefika Proud Pathways for Change 2019-2023
Pasefika Proud: Our Families, Our People, Our Responsibility