Diversity in a multi-racial, multicultural and multi-religious nation was an important aspect of mutual co-existence, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad.

While delivering his opening remarks at the Rotuma Day celebration in Suva yesterday, he said people now feel free to immerse themselves with pride in their cultural heritage and practices.

“I think we can all agree that after 24 December 2022, as a people, we now feel free to immerse ourselves with pride in our cultural heritage and practices without feeling like we’re committing a crime,” Prof Prasad said.

“And certainly after we just celebrated girmit celebrations last week, as children of girmit our euphoria and assurance in ourselves, and in Fiji, as well as in our story is such a great feeling.

“And I know you are eagerly awaiting the first meeting of the Great Council of Chiefs in more than 15 years.

“A meeting that should result in wisdom and goodwill towards all whose motherland is Fiji and I know a delegation on your behalf has already visited the chiefly island of Bau to offer your good wishes in the traditional manner befitting such an occasion.”

Prof Prasad also encouraged the younger generations of Rotuma to participate in Fiji’s politics to ensure their voices were heard. “Fiji needs you, the more diverse the voices are at the table the richer the solutions we can present.”

Fiji Rotuma Association chairman Victor Fatiaki said the Rotuman community has overcome many challenges in the past years but continued towards achieving its visions and values for the present and future generations of Rotuma.

“The preservation and promotion of our heritage is what we proudly celebrate every year,” he said.

“We celebrate the display of handicrafts, root crops, chants, dancing and the gift of love.”

The annual event which falls on May 13, signifies the anniversary of Rortuma’s cession to the United Kingdom in 1881. Farmer’s root crops, performances and women’s handicraft items display were a few of the main attractions during the two-day celebrations.