FWRM Celebrates 30th Anniversary By Maryann Lockington

It could be imagined as the embers of a movement. Ignited in 1986, when 56 women took their passion and anger to Des Voex Rd in Suva and birthed a legacy. Three decades on, that legacy was celebrated by 200 Pacifc Women Human Rights Defenders with raised sparklers that lit up the Oceania Centre at the University of the South Pacifc. The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement celebrated 30 years of fearless activism and advocacy, defending human rights and gender equality as part of the closing event of the inaugural Pacifc Feminist Forum (PFF). Participants and Working Group Members on Day 2 of the Pacifc Feminist Forum Another herstoric milestone for FWRM, PFF was held from 28-30 November at the vision of justice and gender equality. PFF the organisation’s commitment to University of the South Pacifc and brought re-emphasised the power of a collective; intergenerational engagement. together Pacifc feminists and women’s that one whisper of defance could be a The night kicked off with incoming human rights defenders from 13 countries loud roar for change. messages of solidarity from FWRM’s Co- across the region. At the end of the 3 days, The Pacifc Founder Imrana Jalal in Manila and also, The space was convened for re- Feminists Charter for Change was drafted, former Executive Director Virisila Buadromo energising, re-strengthening and re- fnalised and endorsed echoing the voices, who was in India at that time. affrming feminist solidarity and in many concerns, ideas and values of women’s Jalal’s message was read out by Board ways refected FWRM’s ideals, though it rights activists from across our region. Member Makareta Waqavonovono. has come a very long way since the iconic A feeling of accomplishment, relief and “Being part of FWRM changes us forever. meeting of those women in Suva years ago. celebration permeated the space at USP, We leave knowing so much more, and even PFF was once only an abstract idea; when the document was fnalised and led if we don’t begin as feminists, we certainly the musings of two feminists who had just by the working group, the participants leave as feminists,” she said. returned from the Asia Pacifc Feminist chanted, danced and shouted. “Congratulations FWRM, on your 30th Forum, Virisila Buadromo and Tavai Bale. “This is what a feminist looks like! This birthday,” said Buadromo in her video Just as FWRM began, fowering from a is what an activist looks like!” Chorusing message. “This is a huge achievement, concerned group determined to take on the voices, Pacific music and a renewed particularly for an organisation where our patriarchy, PFF stemmed from the need to commitment to work with each other, world view and work is often viewed as strengthen regional feminist solidarity. across our diverse backgrounds, contexts, unpopular,” she said. After the frst seeds of ideas were sown, agendas and focus areas of work. After the formalities were done, true to it garnered interest from the Fiji Women’s This sense of jubilation carried on to the the roots of Pacifc culture there was an Rights Movement and after 2 years, a closing event, FWRM’s 30th Anniversary explosion of music, dancing and socialising. working group was formed to bring this dinner. It was the end of PFF as an event, but vision to fruition. This included FWRM, The anniversary dinner included also the beginning, as one of the frst Diverse Voices and Action (DIVA) for participants, the working group and initiatives to bring together regional diverse Equality, Pacifc Young Women Leadership invited guests, those that have been part feminist voices. Alliance (PYWLA) and Haus of Khameleon of FWRM’s herstory, as partners, friends FWRM will continue to fan the fre of (HOK). and colleagues. activism and foster the collective, creative In some ways, PFF was an ode to characters The event itself was hosted by FWRM staff diversity that brought about its beginnings woven into the fabric of FWRM. The and a GIRLS participant, highlighting and legacy. diversity, solidarity, connection and shared

1 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES FROM THE DIRECTOR’S DESK

Staff Transitions

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement bid farewell to the following staff members in 2016. Thank you for your dedication and contribution towards building FWRM and the women’s movement as a whole. (in order of departure)

Kameli Tikoitoga Kameli has been a passionate feminist and a male advocate for women’s rights for many years. He has contributed to the organisation through his different roles as Administrative Assistant, Finance Offcer and later Finance Team Leader. We thank Kameli for his dedication and level of commitment to the organisation and wish him Happy International Women’s Day! the best. Tara Chetty Welcome to the frst issue of Balance for 2017, a special bumper edition celebrating FWRM’s 30th A committed feminist and women’s rights Anniversary and the commencement of the inaugural Pacifc Feminist Forum. advocate, Tara has had a long association with the As the newly appointed Executive Director, I’d like to express my appreciation to the Governance Movement. She is a former FWRM Governance Board and FWRM staff for their support and hearty feminist welcome. Board member, Young Women’s Working group It was an exciting start to 2017, transitioning into an organisation still reveling in the afterglow of member and the former Communications Offcer. a ground-breaking regional feminist forum. I was not able to be part of the celebrations in November Tara left the movement briefy for post-graduate physically but nevertheless, I proudly support and commit to promoting the Pacifc Feminist Charter study overseas before returning to FWRM for Change. as Programme Director. Finally, she became A signifcant component of our work is fostered through FWRM’s commitment to movement- FWRM’s Executive Director in February 2015. building and partnerships. Pioneering an initiative like PFF, being part of the We Rise Coalition Tara is now currently employed at Pacifc Women which is made up of FWRM, Diverse Voices and Action (DIVA) For Equality, femLINKPacifc and the Shaping Development. We wish her the best. International Women’s Development Agency (IWDA). We’ve also just recently taken on the role of transitional secretariat for the Pacifc CSO Organising Genevieve Sukhdeo Mechanism (PACCOM). Genevieve has significantly contributed to FWRM has embarked on the herstoric journey of Balancing the Scales: Improving Women’s FWRM’s visibility and profle for 2 years as the Access to Justice research on the effective implementation of Fiji’s Family Law Act 2003, Domestic Communications Offcer. First engaging with Violence Decree 2009 and the Crimes Decree 2010. Legislative reform has been a pivotal area of FWRM as a participant of the Fiji Young Women’s FWRM’s core work. Forum, Genevieve’s passion and zest for women’s This invigorating piece of work will inform FWRM’s future legislative work and has renewed key issues saw her moving from mainstream relationships with the formal justice system. broadcasting to NGO work. Genevieve is currently Additionally, FWRM launched the second GIRLS program and also welcomed graduates of the travelling overseas and we wish her well. previous cohort to the GIRLS Club. I’m looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead, particularly with mapping our new 5- year Veena Singh Strategic Plan, the socio-political environment around Agenda 2030 and working in collaboration with Veena has contributed to FWRM’s work for years, our partners to ensure we reach our common goals. collaboratively in her capacity as a femLinkPacifc staff and a graduate of the Emerging Leaders In solidarity, Forum. Veena’s wide knowledge and experience Nalini Singh on women, peace & security has been a great asset to the organisation, when she joined as the Young Women’s Offcer before becoming the Gender & Transitional Justice Team Leader. Veena is now working at the Pacifc Community and wish her the best.

Michelle Reddy First joining FWRM 10 years ago, a former teacher and a graduate of the Emerging Leaders Forum, Michelle has played a signifcant role in contributing to the work of FWRM. She has been the Human Rights Training Offcer, Young Women’s Offcer, , Gender & Transitional Justice Team Leader and the Programme Director. Michelle led FWRM through its transitional period in 2016 as Acting Executive Director for 5 months, seeing the organisation through the inaugural Pacifc Feminist Forum and 30th Anniversary. We send Michelle our appreciation and wish her the best for the future.

2 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES Anniversary Message By Imrana Jalal Manila, Philippines, 30 November (The following was Imrana’s solidarity message for the 30th Anniversary of FWRM which was read at the closing event of the Pacific Feminist Forum)

cooking, cleaning etc, the sharing of child FWRM is one of the things in my life that and elder care. when at home it is still mainly I am genuinely proud of. us, shouldering the larger burden! Men So many amazing women have come have to be prepared to genuinely share the through FWRM, walked its feminist corridors, domestic and care responsibilities! So girls, and their subsequent employability at SPC, when you are making your choices, don’t Pacifc Women, regional organisations, the confne your scan to the “hawt” ones only! Try UN, international NGOs etc is living proof to ascertain and visualise what they might be that we hire and train strong feminists and like in the kitchen, cooking and cleaning, in gender equality advocates. So FWRM is also the bathroom scrubbing the toilet, changing a good training ground! Being part of FWRM pooey nappies, staying up with a sick child at changes us forever. We leave knowing so night, looking after you with a serious illness, Imrana Jalal, FWRM Co-Founder much more, and even if we don’t begin as say for example, breast cancer….if you can and Management Board member feminists, we certainly leave as feminists. visualise him doing all this, as if its part of We can take great pride in the fact that “normality”, grab him before someone else Another fve years has passed by since we although we are a small organisation by global does! Why? Because they are rare! Unless celebrated our 25th anniversary in 2011. standards, we are well known and respected of course you have the “balls” to teach Today we celebrate 30 years of Fiji Women’s in the international human rights community them! I assume you must have some “balls” Rights Movement (FWRM) as an organisation. and law organisations abroad, and when we otherwise what are you doing at the Pacifc What an incredible three decades it has been! say things about Fiji we are taken seriously, Feminist Forum??! Having an understanding We have survived three military coups de’tat, We should not take this for granted. That partner is so critical if you choose to be a several internal fnancial crises, the departures reputation has been built by Founding and feminist and gender advocate. Even if they of several executive directors, including the Board members, staff and active volunteers don’t share every element of your ideological longest serving Virisila Buadromo, the death over 30 years. Our reputation is our most views, they have to share enough to be able to of founding member Adi Kuini Bavadra, and precious asset. support your cause, and to share in the home the recent deaths of two key women who These are some of the important messages responsibilities. This is their “Last Frontier”! helped FWRM get established. These were I have learnt as a feminist and human rights Will they triumph? Your gentle prodding is Shireen Lateef who helped us get started, advocate that are both personal and political critical here. and Penelope Moore, who was our frst paid over 35 years, that I want to share with you Message No. three: Take time to rest and staff member, and co-ordinator. I would like young feminists at the Forum: nurture your mind and soul. Don’t allow us to for one minute pause in silence and My message No. one: to you all here yourself to “burn out”. I have held at least acknowledge Shireen and Peni. FWRM also today, members and supporters of FWRM, 75% of former directors, and some staff, in especially thanks Shireen Lateef for the & the Pacifc Feminist Forum, is the same my arms while they wept because they were generous bequest left us in her will. one as before - with the passing of time and so tired, exhausted and over worked, and I will not repeat everything I said at our lessening of resources, FWRM may soften its had let themselves be too consumed by the silver anniversary in 2011, but, again I have ideological stance; its feminist and human “cause”. Take time to smell the coffee! (Or to pause here to acknowledge the co-founders rights foundations may weaken due to the wine!) Fight the cause, but have fun too! of FWRM - Shamima Ali, ‘Atu Emberson pragmatism, a lack of time for scrutiny and Just don’t dance on tables and the like, or Bain, Alefna Vuki, Adi Kuini Bavadra and rigour, given the diffcult circumstances under get yourself into sticky situations because the Helen Sutherland. Although Shireen Lateef which it survives; and it may take a practical whole movement will be judged, not just you. was not a founding member, she provided direction, the easier road. Do not allow this to That’s just the way things are. great support to help us get started. She happen. Maintain the high ground always and There is not much that I regret about what also strongly infuenced the shaping of my although it may cause you grief in the short FWRM did and the choices it has made as feminism, which has in turn shaped some term, I promise that you will emerge from it an organisation; nor the choices I have made of FWRM’s feminist ideology. She certainly stronger and better, in the long term. in respect of FWRM. If I could live my life strongly infuenced my political ideology, as Message No. two: If you are going to marry all over again I would make most of the did Atu Emberson Bain. or choose a male partner, choose wisely! The same choices, despite the persecution and I would also like to thank Penelope strategic gender relations in the household, prosecutions of my family and I. FWRM has Moore, Vani Dulaki, Praveen Sharma, Gina will, to a great extent, determine whether your been one of the best parts of my life. We have Houng Lee, Raijeli Nicole, Virisila Buadromo, partnership will be a happy one. You have remained true to our FWRM constitution and Tara Chetty and Michelle Reddy for their to be happy at home if you want to change it has cost us plenty, but it’s been worth it, leadership as executive directors, over the last society. Men have to get “the equality thing” I believe. Relationships are critical, not only 30 years, as well as to the Board members, – not just intellectually, which is easy to say, for a strong organisation but for coalition past and present. I am grateful to all of them but the practical realities of everyday living. building. Maintain them and keep the for making the sacrifces they made to build Men have to be prepared to “live equality”, sisterhood intact through these relationships. and maintain FWRM as a strong women’s and not just mouth it! No point in us talking about I am there in spirit and my heart is there human rights organisation, and to take it from equality, the equal burden of domestic labor, with you all tonight, as we celebrate our 30th strength to strength. birthday. Happy Birthday FWRM!

3 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES PACIFIC FEMINIST FORUM

Mapping Journeys and Building Movements By Menka Goundan From 28th November to 30th November, women human rights defenders, feminists and women from multifarious backgrounds across the South Pacifc converged in Suva, for the inaugural Pacifc Feminist Forum The opening panel on Women’s Human Rights Day, Day 2 of the Pacifc Feminist Forum (PFF). The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) along with its event partners articulate these values in more culturally Sustainable Development, Association for and a Steering Group of Pacifc Island specifc ways. Feminist movement building Women’s Rights in Development Forum representatives which includes: Diverse on the other hand, could be defned as and the United Nation’s People’s General Voices and Action for Equality, Haus of the attempt to bring feminist analysis and Assembly. These are just a few examples of Khameleon and Pacifc Young Women’s gender equality perspectives into other international movement building. Leadership Alliance organised the PFF as movements. Several factors have weakened and a means of ‘mapping journeys and building Movements are often the most fragmented feminist movements, one of movements’ amongst feminists across the effective way for particularly stigmatised, these factors is the co-option and distortion region. marginalised and socially excluded of feminist ideology- discourse and agendas Feminism within the Pacifc has grown constituencies of women to become visible by mainstream institutions and social from strength to strength, with various and have their voices heard. Building their forces. It is important that feminists from feminist organisations accumulating a collective power through movements helps this region are provided with a collective wealth of experience and knowledge to women convert their quest for their human space in order to strengthen and re-energise advance gender equality and women’s rights, for equality and justice into a political themselves for transformative change in their human rights across the Pacifc region. force for change that cannot be ignored by unique ‘Pasifka’ way. The Pacifc Feminist Feminism is the advocacy of women’s their families, communities, governments or Forum was one that was positioned to be human rights on the grounds of political, society at large. an extremely important event for Pacifc social, and economic equality to men. It It is possible to argue that women can women being the frst ever gathering of its has evolved as an ideology, an analytical be empowered without necessarily building kind in the region or in a small island state. framework and a strategic framework. As an movements, through grassroots work and Participants from 13 countries attended the ideology, feminism today stands not only for policy advocacy. Some would assert that forum. These countries include: Papua New gender equality, but for the transformation macro changes- such as Convention on the Guinea, Autonomous region of Bougainville, of all social relations of power that oppress, Elimination of all forms of Discrimination Vanuatu, Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, Solomon exploit or marginalize any set of people, against Women were achieved through Islands, Tonga, Australia, New Zealand, New on the basis of their gender, age, sexual research, documentation, activism and Caledonia, Marshall Islands and Tuvalu. orientation, ability, race, religion, nationality, advocacy efforts of individuals and This collective space with its robust location, class, caste or ethnicity. As an organisations- whilst this is true, it is also true sessions on a variety of topics not only analytical framework, feminism has created that none of these could have been achieved limited to women’s issues provided guidance a range of analytical tools and methods for without building some kind of collective and much needed ‘fuel’ to re-energise and unpacking the hidden and normalized power power. Women not speaking as individuals perhaps initiate feminist movements in the imbalances between men and women in or through particular organisations but with region. The Pacifc Feminist Charter which various social institutions and structures. a powerful, collective voice. was launched on the last day of the forum As a social change strategy, feminism Pacific Feminists have represented is expected to maneuver key conversations prioritises the empowerment of women, the the region at various high-level meetings and steer the regional feminist movement. transformation of gender power relations and both regionally and internationally and It is one that weaves our Pacifc issues the advancement of gender equality within successfully infuenced those spaces in and identities that infuenced uncountable all change interventions. terms of networking and developing strong moments of tears, singing, dancing, laughter Women of all diversities have embraced alliances with fellow activists worldwide. and chills during the three days. Whilst the the fundamental idea of feminism and These spaces have often situated the forum may have been a time to pause and evolved over the years. The feminist Pacifc as small contingents with very little refect on the journey of the movement- it movement has been pivotal in strategising, space to voice a myriad of issues. The also compelled young and future feminists to organizing and negotiating key spaces Pacifc feminist movement therefore is one grow and envision the region and its feminist and policies that has not only beneftted going against the current, as advocates development paradigm. With much hope women in all its diversities but men as well. and activists forge through the vast Pacifc and energy for the future, feminists through Feminist movements are social movements territory to consolidate works and push a the charter have committed to greater goals that espouse feminist values and ideology. Pacifc development agenda to the forefront that will hopefully demystify the stereotypes Gender equality, social and economic of global progress plans. In the past, of feminism in the region. equality, the full body of human rights, feminists from the region have successfully -The article also draws on concepts tolerance, inclusion, peace, non-violence, participated in the Commission on the discussed by Sirlatha Batliwala in ‘Changing respectful spaces and roles for all, even Status of Women, Asia Pacifc Forum on the Worlds- Concepts and Practices of if they do not call themselves feminist or Women’s Movements’, AWID (2012). 4 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES PACIFIC FEMINIST FORUM We Rise at the Pacifc Feminist Forum By Meghan Cooper - IWDA and Maryann Lockington - FWRM

Over the 16 Days of Activism in 2016, Pacifc Feminist Forum (PFF) was held in Suva, at the University of the South Pacifc (USP), a regional convening for ‘mapping journeys and building movements’ in the Pacifc, and coincided with the 30th birthday celebrations of the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM). The Forum was a success, for the diversity of women and their stories that the Forum connected, bringing 130 participants from across 13 countries. It is also notable for the partners who mobilised to make it happen. Countless allies and partners were involved in the making of the PFF and its success cannot be attributed to one, or a few, but all who contributed. PFF serves as an example of how four Partners in the We Rise Coalition after their workshop at the PFF. Photo credit: IWDA diverse organisations in the We Rise Coalition made up of Diverse Voices and “The We Rise Coalition is another way Coalition building was not about our collective Action (DIVA) for Equality, femLINKPACIFIC of coming together to transform political self, but to testing and understanding our (femLINK), Fiji Women’s Rights Movement spaces – in Government and in the contribution to the women’s movement in and International Women’s Development movement,” said Sharon Bhagwan Rolls. the Pacifc. Agency (IWDA) are socially organising, and But according to Donna McSkimming of The greatest achievement from this leveraging their networks and resources, to IWDA, in order to transform these spaces forum is how the Coalition mobilised become, and create Coalitions for lasting we need to “continually negotiate our power our respective strengths, to help the change in women’s human rights. differences, build consensus, and forge Pacifc Feminist Forum be a success. As The PFF was also a key movement building a collective identity as a Coalition – this expressed by Sharon Bhagwan Rolls during activity supported through the We Rise 2 takes time but is necessary in order to show the Coalition workshop, the Forum was “a program, currently being implemented by that we are more than four organisations moment of demonstrating feminist solidarity the We Rise Coalition, with funding from working on a program together.” in action”, showing that “a Coalition is not a the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade For the We Rise Coalition, the case of project activity”, but another way of coming through the Pacifc Women Shaping Pacifc the Pacifc Feminist Forum, has served as together to create, and transform political Development Program. an example of how this Coalition model and spaces. According to DIVA’s Political Advisor commitment has played out in a regional Noelene Nabulivou:, setting. “(We) Need to acknowledge that each FWRM was the event host; DIVA was a partner brings different forms of resources member of the Forum steering committee to the Coalition – need to name them, claim who organised and participated in several them and use them!” parallel sessions and mobilised allies from At the centre of the We Rise Coalition’s across the region to participate. Increasing work is a commitment to building and visibility of the Forum, in Fiji and across sustaining women’s collective power through the region FemLINK was the official movements. One way this commitment was media partner for the Forum. FemLINK realised was through the Pacifc Feminist was instrumental to sharing the stories Forum. A commitment to movement and special moments in the lead up to building means recognising that we do not, and during the Forum. IWDA worked hand and should not work in isolation. Rather, we in hand with the FWRM and FemLINK to must identify and work across the complex capture the stories behind the Forum. This spaces, with diverse organisations, women was a key part of IWDA’s role as an equal and individuals in Fiji, the Pacifc and partner in the Coalition, but also as an around the world where we are each involved Australian based organisation working as an or seeking to infuence. ally to the movement. IWDA also mobilised “The legacy of the women’s movement and sponsored fve Pacifc partners to attend in Fiji is with networks and coalitions, from PNG and Solomon Islands. and these are ongoing today,” said former Partners in the We Rise Coalition during The story of the Forum illustrates how a panel at the Pacifc Feminist Forum FWRM Acting Executive Director Michelle the We Rise commitment to feminism and Reddy.

5 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES PACIFIC FEMINIST FORUM

Refections on the Pacifc Feminist Forum By Shazia Usman

Sr. Lorraine is from the congregation woman I sometimes feel the particular set of the Nazareth Sisters in Bougainville. of challenges we face as a community, “During the Bougainville crisis, a 10-year sometimes gets lost in the mix if we don’t civil war (1989 – 1999), that forced the have strong advocates highlighting them. closure of one of the world’s largest open During this Forum, there were a couple of cut copper mines and claimed thousands us that did step up and speak on specifc of lives, Sr. Lorraine led the women of issues but we needed more of us to do this Bougainville to demand for peace through - there is much more to be done and if we continuous dialogue between the warring don’t do this work, then who will? factions and peaceful protest. After the If there is anything this Forum reaffrmed crisis, Sr. Lorraine built up the Nazareth for me and one that will keep me going, it’s Centre for Rehabilitation, a shelter built for these words from the incomparable Audre women and children to seek refuge when Lorde: “I am not free while any woman is in fear for their lives and a place where unfree, even when her shackles are very ex-combatants could go to receive trauma different from my own.” counselling and rebuild their lives again.” Shazia Usman credits her feminist I frst saw her story as part of the Papua awakening to the Fiji Women’s Rights New Guinea-made Pawa Meri documentary Movement, having joined the movement Shazia and Sr Lorraine (the bio text above is from their site). It was as an undergraduate research intern wonderful to hear her speak at the Forum during the 2006 national election period. and have her share her progressive thoughts She later joined the organisation as its I was privileged be part of the hundred on women’s rights to our own bodies and Communications Officer and is also resilient, brilliant and passionate feminists, have her endorse the frst ever Pacifc an alumnus of its Emerging Leaders’ women human rights defenders and gender Feminists Charter for Change - her support Forum program. She’s currently the equality advocates at the inaugural Pacifc was critical in getting some very strong and Communications Coordinator for the Feminist Forum last year. What a way necessary language included on women’s Pacific Women Support Unit which to end 2016 - celebrating successes, sexual and reproductive health and rights. provides technical support to the Australian acknowledging challenges and together, What a shero! Government’s gender equality program, mapping the future for women’s rights in Intersectionality is really important in the Pacific Women Shaping Pacific the Pacifc. the type of feminism I practice, and the Development Program. Views expressed The Forum itself had around 20 sessions, type of feminism I would like to think we here are her own. including a combination of open plenary practice in the Pacifc. Being an Indo-Fijian and multiple thematic sessions. Along with colleagues from the Developmental Leadership Program and the International Women’s Development Agency, I had an opportunity to co-facilitate two sessions on building a feminist movement through communications. The exchange saw advocates sharing different strategies they use to share information, knowledge and lobby for support. For me, there were many takeaways from this Forum. The frst was the realisation that “wow…I’m really part of a bigger Pacifc feminist movement!” I always knew I was, of course, but for the majority of us to be gathered in one space, to actually meet and spend time with each other, was surreal and a bit emotional. I met so many Pacifc feminists whose work I had only heard of or read about. Many who live and work in areas where they risk their safety daily to support women and other marginalised groups to live freely with dignity and respect. I had a complete fangirl moment at the “This is what a feminist looks like!” Cheers at the Pacifc Feminist Forum. Forum when I met Sr. Lorraine Garasu, who (L-R Mamta Chand , Shazia Usman, Maryann Lockington) is one such women human rights defender.

6 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES PACIFIC FEMINIST FORUM

GIRLS Matter Session Refections on the Pacifc Feminist Forum at the Pacifc By Shazia Usman Feminist Forum Celebrating intergenerational leadership. By Lillian Delana

The Pacifc Feminist Forum brought together feminists and women from across diverse GIRLS participant 15-year-old Akansha Kant was one of the panelists backgrounds including ethnicity, nationality, at the Pacifc Feminist Forum Opening Plenary religion, sexual orientation and age. True to the spirit of diversity and inclusivity, the encourage Pacifc women human rights of the sessions at the forum. Not only has it GIRLS (GROW INSPIRE RELATE LEAD defenders to adopt similar strategies of boosted my confdence in terms of facilitating SUCCEED) Club was also present at the working with girl children and their parents. & public speaking, but also it has made me PFF, as a participant, speaker and workshop “Attending the GIRLS session, I was confdent as a GIRLS and humanitarian facilitators. impressed at how confidently the girls activist. As for the Girls program, I’ve The GIRLS Club is representative of facilitated the session and how they took definitely learnt new information about 20 graduates of the Fiji Women’s Rights lead in answering all the questions. From things I hadn’t known about, for example, I Movement’s (FWRM) 3-year GIRLS Theatre attending this session it has allowed me to didn’t actually think bullying was a serious Programme that took place from 2012 to understand issues of young girls and the issue until hearing personal experiences 2015. The Pacifc Feminist Forum kick- importance of providing a space for them from the other members of the girls program started their frst activity, in participating to be listened to,” said Seremasi Latinara themselves. My parents, especially my mom within an intergenerational space as experts (Mother) from Nadi, Fiji. has been very supportive. She accompanies on their own issues and concerns. Including the GIRLS in the Pacific me to every occasion like the Human Rights At the forum’s opening plenary, Akansha Feminist Forum was herstorical, as this day, and she has seen that I have become Kant, a 15-year-old GIRLS participant talked was the frst ever gathering of its kind in mature and confdent especially in advocacy. about the program, her journey and the the region and to include girl’s voices in My mother also attends the parent sessions challenges she faced with bullying. To hear the panel and day-to-day events was a great and is keen to learning more information on sharing and refections from the girl child’s achievement. the issues affecting young girls like us today, perspective was enlightening. Some of the although she is quite informed, she too never discussions that came from both the panel, thought bullying was a serious issue. as well the audience, were centred around The Refections of a the importance (and lack) of self-care. Abigail Aguilar, aged 15 years joined Equally important was the need to address GIRL at the Pacifc GIRLS in 2012 and is a member of the the multiple concerns of women’s health, newly formed GIRLS Club. A migrant addressing perceived and hidden powers from the Phillipines, her family settled in within intergenerational leadership, the gaps Feminist Forum Fiji in the last six years. As part of GIRLs, and the importance of documenting our own By Abigail Aguilar she has learned about different issues journeys. faced by her peers. Some of which, she On the frst day of the forum, the GIRLS Being part of the Pacifc Feminist Forum has experienced, issues like bullying and participants also facilitated a session titled, was a completely new experience for being discriminated because of her race “GIRLS Matter.” which included girls from me. Especially since I hadn’t understood and gender. She is known to others as a the age of 12 to 16 years. feminism completely. However, overall it quiet reserved young girl. Abigail was one “The level of creativity that was created was such an interesting experience and I of the youngest participants that attended by the GIRLS at the session was so amazing loved the active and lively vibes everyone the three-day forum from the Pacifc. At especially how they facilitated the timeline at the forum had. the GIRLS Matter session Abigail was the with the different decades. I was so amazed This forum actually made me well lead facilitator who led in the discussion at how the girls were very articulate and informed about the feminist work and of and was handling questions from the foor the way they were answering questions course the different organisations all around and provided advice to mothers who had and responding to queries from the foor. the Pacifc that link to feminism, which I had trouble handling teenage daughters. At I was amazed at their level of confdence had no knowledge of before. Also being part the GIRLS Matter session Abigail managed especially at their age. For us back at home, of the GIRLS program has moulded me to to share her own struggles and challenges young girls at this age don’t speak up,” said become more mature in terms of activism about herself and her body image and how PFF Participant Yvonne Ono from the Young and what to expect in reality and how to help she overcome this issue. For Abigail to Women’s Christian Association, Solomon others. It has inspired me to use this program share such a story in a public space was Islands. to make a change in this world. empowering and inspiring to others. Sharing The girls shared on how songs, As a (PFF) participant, I could say that this story defnitely boosted her confdence storytelling, yoga and interactive theatre this forum has boosted my confdence even and through this activity she nominated games were safe means for them to talk more. Especially, being a facilitator for one herself to be the Master of Ceremony (MC) about their issues. The intention was to for Human Rights Day.

7 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES RESEARCH

Food, Beverage and Hospitality or during the course of doing a job Sexual sector (35%) has the highest that was the result of traditional, incidence of sexual harassment cultural or kinship relationship. harassment in followed by Public Service (25%), Under Fiji’s Employment Health (24%) and Retail (23%) Relations Promulgation (2007), 76 the Workplace in with Education (8%) sector being (2); an employer must develop and the lowest. In the study, Nadi (35%) maintain a policy to prevent sexual 1 in 5 women have Fiji - 2016 Follow was identifed as the ‘hotspot’ for harassment in his or her workplace. experienced sexual incidences followed by Suva (19%), A total of 62% of all working women harassment in the Labasa (18%) and Lautoka (11%). interviewed said their employer had workplace up Study. In 2002, Lautoka was reported to be a sexual harassment policy. This was By Menka Goundan the ‘hotspot’ for sexual harassment. much higher in the private sector Two hypotheses can be formed on (70%) than the public sector (57%). The Food, Beverage the improvement in the situation While 22% said their employer In a study commissioned by the on Lautoka; (1) being the tourism does not have a policy, a further and Hospitality Fiji Women’s Rights Movement infrastructure restructure has 16% claimed they did not know if sector (35%) (FWRM) and conducted by Market contributed to this and (2) the there was a policy or not in their has the highest Research Consultants, Tebbutt expiry of the Multi Fibre Agreement workplace. Despite having proper incidence of sexual Research in August 2016; it was in 2005 which saw the demise of legislation, majority of cases go found that one in fve women have harassment many garment establishments in unreported (82%). Reporting rates experienced sexual harassment in the city. (18%) are down compared to 2002 the workplace. This means 20% Younger women (25% of under when it was 23%. Of those that of all women interviewed agreed Nadi (35%) was 30 year olds) and those women reported, 21% stated that nothing to have experienced some form of identified as from i-Taukei (29%) are most likely happened and that there was no sexual harassment in the workplace. the ‘hotspot’ for to be harassed, as are casual (43%) consequences for the offender. The number has decreased from the and part-time (30%) employees. Most women in the study did incidences 33% incidence recorded in a similar Incidences are higher for women not think that sexual harassment study conducted in 2002. with these job requirements: serving was a joke and there was strong In 2002 FWRM commissioned members of the public; working support for speaking out and not Almost 1 in 8 Tebbutt Research to conduct a on weekends; working at night; staying quiet. The decrease in the women claimed to ground-breaking research on the shift work; changing in and out of incidence of sexual harassment have experienced incidence and nature of sexual uniforms at the workplace; working in the workplace is encouraging, harassment of women in the sexual harassment on own in isolation; attending offce however, more work needs to be workplace. Results of that study in the workplace parties. The most common types of done for workplaces to adopt and were widely utilised, and assisted or during the sexual harassment that women face implement sexual harassment FWRM to lobby and advocate against course of doing a is Verbal (12%), Gestural (10%) policies that are consistent with the sexual harassment in the workplace, job that was the and Physical (9%) harassment. national standards as stated in the and to provide input into a decision Most types of harassment are Employment Relations Promulgation result of traditional, to adopt a broader defnition of happening at the usual place of (ERP). With strong patterns cultural or kinship sexual harassment for legislation work and have occurred in the indicating high prevalence in the relationship. being developed at that time. In last 12 months. Most types have Food, Beverage and Hospitality June 2016, FWRM commissioned been experienced in the current sector, advocacy and knowledge Tebbutt Research to update the organisation rather than previous base on sexual harassment needs to fndings by conducting a follow up Younger women organisation, indicating that majority be strengthened across this industry. study. The core research objective (25% of under women remain in workplaces where Most young people being victims was to replicate and update the 30 year olds) and they experienced sexual harassment. and offenders of sexual harassment key elements of the 2002 study, those women from The study confrms that majority of in the workplace indicates a long while incorporating some changes i-Taukei (29%) are the offenders are males with a small term issue since these people will to make the project relevant to the proportion being females. Most of remain in the work force for a long most likely to be 2016 workplace. A quantitative these offenders were between the time. Strong implementation of the harassed, as are study with 1000 women currently ages 20-39 years. Therefore, young sexual harassment provisions in casual (43%) and in paid employment was conducted males are most likely to offend. the ERP and effective workplace part-time (30%) in Suva, Nadi, Lautoka and Labasa. Of the 20% of women who have policies will help relinquish this The study asked the question, has employees. experienced sexual harassment in issue. the prevalence of sexual harassment the workplace, half have experienced in the workplace changed with the more than one type of harassment. increasing number of women in the A total of 62% of Those working in the Food, Beverage workforce and/or with the increasing all working women and Hospitality sector are most number of women in decision- interviewed said likely to report multiplicity (10% making roles? their employer 4+types) of offenses. Whilst the incidence of sexual In the 2016 survey, the idea had a sexual harassment in the workplace in of sexual harassment instigated harassment policy. 2016 as compared to 2002 has through communal or familial decreased, the findings of the ties (tauvu, tavale, kinsmen) was research point out interesting Aaina Show on Radio Fiji 2 (L-R) explored. Almost one in eight Shammi (Presenter), Yishu (FWCC), relations to Fiji’s economic women claimed to have experienced Menka Goundan (FWRM) development in past decade. The sexual harassment in the workplace

8 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES RESEARCH

about at the beginning. Majority of the children refused to attend school Access to Justice women that were present mentioned because they were embarrassed. that it was frst time for them to be One thing that was evident from Community consulted. The consultation was this consultation was that there was a conducted in iTaukei, Fiji Hindi and general understanding of what justice Consultation: English, depending on the community was and how justice is achieved was FWRM was in and the participant’s different especially in the urban and Improving Fijian language preference. rural communities. Majority chose … the pressure to The 4 reoccurring issues to use the informal justice system provide for family Women’s Access throughout the consultations included because it is readily available to them, needs strained family, fnance, education, alcohol cheaper when compared to the formal husband and wife abuse and education and school justice system and because of family to Justice dropouts. Participants discussed that kinship. Using the formal justice relationships, it family challenges ranged from broken system not only is expensive and time would lead to By Alanieta Velulu families, domestic violence, mothers consuming, it is also a scary experience domestic violence expected to fulfll both parental roles because it formalizes everything, or extra marital Over 10 years ago, the Fiji Women’s because fathers were away from which may cause disharmony in affairs.“ Rights Movement realised a great home for work purposes or attending village settings or family but it is milestone. village obligations and not spending also not accessible to everyone. In FWRM had been part of the long enough quality family time together. cases where immediate assistance is … when men abuse push to reform the family law as part Finance issues that were raised needed there is fnancial constraints, of their work as a legaslitive lobbying alcohol they expect included the high cost of living and police offcers not available and if not to do any work organisation and fnally in 2005, the in-suffcient income to cater for family they were available they were not the following day Family Law Act was enacted. expenses. Some women shared that as helpful. From observations and Now, after a decade of it’s because the pressure to provide for reading all the information gathered unlike women who implementation, FWRM wanted to family needs strained husband and from the consultations conducted it still expected to do see if this comprehensive piece of wife relationships, it would lead to could be concluded from my opinion their daily chores.” legislation is achieving its intended domestic violence or extra marital that the formal justice system, even outcome which is to provide women affairs. with comprehensive and progressive fair and equal treatment before Majority chose to Participants also shared alcohol legislation, everyday people fear it use the informal the law. Further to encourage and abuse (including kava) as an issue, as because they are not informed about justice system empower women to live abusive it is abused by men, youth and some it. This conclusion is drawn because relationships and seek help from the cases women. An interesting note that during discussions, a reoccurring because it is Family Court and have greater access was raised at one of the consultations, barrier is fear because of this readily available to justice. the group that shared this also preconceived idea that if you cannot to them, cheaper This has been the purpose of the stated that when men abuse alcohol speak or write proper English the when compared new project funded by the European they expect not to do any work the formal justice system is not for them. to the formal Union titled, Balancing the Scales: following day unlike women who still This is the frst phase of this project justice system and Improving Fijian Women’s Access to expected to do their daily chores. In followed by a research component, Justice Project. Under this project, because of family some cases family disputes arise out working with relevant stakeholders kinship.” FWRM works in partnership with of this expectations and preferential including judiciary, police, legal aid, femLINKacifc, Diverse Voices and treatment towards men. As for the police and the offce of the director of Action for Equality Fiji (DIVA) and youth, because of unemployment or public prosecution. Haus of Khamelon (HoK). lack of tertiary level education, they All information gathered from the FWRM carried out Community abuse alcohol to pass time which lead consultations Information gathered Consultations from June 7 to October to other criminal activities. from this Consultation will feed into 28, 2016 in all four divisions (Eastern, Interesting that education was FWRM Research and Information Kit. Northern, Western and Central) with one of the reoccurring issues but diverse women including; young participants raised this in relation women, older women, indo Fijian to the high cost of sending their women and LBTQ. This was to gather children to Secondary school in information on women’s issues, their other villages in cases where there understanding of the term justice, were no high schools in their area. how justice looks like to them and This added to high cost of uniforms, what are the barriers stopping them stationaries and having no tertiary from accessing the formal justice level institutes, having to send institutes. children to the mainland might be A total of 17 communities, a contributing factor to the relative 11 villages and 483 people were issue of high number of school consulted including young women, dropouts. On school drop-outs, the iTaukei women, Indo Fijian Women, two common reasons shared was the sex workers, disabled women, the fact that parents cannot afford to LGBTQI communities and few young send children to school and children men who were allies. had high expectations from parents Women were asked to attend the with regards to school supplies such consultation with an open mind and as uniforms, shoes, stationaries. If Access to Justice Consultations in Kadavu were not told what the consultation was parents could not afford new supplies,

9 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES fnding work in their respected felds of Perceptions experience was diffcult. Poverty was also “It was also noted that there identifed as directly linked to ageing, with surrounding Ageing older women not having an income base is a lack of adequate homes nor were many entrepreneurially inclined. for the elderly, i.e. there Women Additionally, the concept of support did not have one single interpretation. Women were not enough, and the By Monica Waqanisau in the FGDs saw it as meaning: physically, emotionally, psychologically as well as socio- ones in operation struggle *The following remarks are extracted from economicly. That support, as refected in with adequate resourcing.” the Scoping Study* the FGDs, declined for people as they aged, especially for women. The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement took on All three methods of data collection Twenty one percent agreed that equal a ground-breaking scoping study, the frst acknowledged that progression of age had a contributors to issues identifed were: (1) ever in the Pacifc, to explore the views direct impact on health. Additionally, there women feel an obligation to continue care about women and ageing. was a huge gap in adequate and accessible work as nurturers and supporters to the Titled, Women & Ageing: Scoping Study healthcare literacy as well as healthcare family unit; (2) that there were no adequate on Perceptions of Ageing among Women in for ageing women. Furthermore, it was retirement homes, and (3) that women have Fiji , it was commissioned under the We Rise strongly acknowledged that while women no or little income opportunities. Only 6% II Coalition, an Australian Government three- are already marginalised in society, this identifed other contributors which were year funding programme, administered to Fiji is further exasperated for openly lesbian not raised as priority concerns in the FDGs, feminist CSOs including the Fiji Women’s women, women who live on the streets and these were: media; cost of providing for Rights Movement (FWRM), femLinkpacifc, or sex workers as they are often shunned in children and families through to tertiary Diverse Voices and Action for Equality communities. education and futures is increasing; medical (DIVA) and Australian-based development It was also noted that there is a lack of specialists not always available in Fiji; lack feminist partner the International Women’s adequate homes for the elderly, i.e. there of information on menopause and growing Development Agency (IWDA). were not enough, and the ones in operation older; and societal norms to look younger. The findings provide a snapshot of struggle with adequate resourcing. Moreover, 80% agreed that ageing women attitudes and perspectives surrounding Key challenges and barriers identifed in did not have the same opportunities as their the feminisation of ageing, which is a both the key informant interviews and focus male counterparts. Of the total number phenomena that has shown that around group discussions, which were amplifed of participants that chose to answer this the world older women out number older in the Online Survey were that: (1) women question— 67% agreed that YES women men, making ageing far more of a female play a vital role in society but often side- who have different sexual orientation, gender experience. Like women of all ages, older lined during decision making; (2) stigma identity or gender expression experienced women actively contribute to society and discrimination by society was ongoing ageing differently. While 88% admitted to and lead diverse vibrant lives. However, (including family members) due to their no prior knowledge of a National Ageing many continue to disproportionately face progression in age; and (3) continued Policy, 12% answered yes that they knew challenges ,particularly in terms of fnancial responsibility to care and provide for their that Fiji had an Ageing Policy. security and accessing healthcare. family whether fnancially or as ‘carers’ FWRM has worked for nearly 30 years to The scoping study was comprised of 2 despite their advanced ageing. end all forms of discrimination against women focus group discussions (with a total of 17 A total of 35 respondents successfully (in all their diversities) in Fiji and the Pacifc participants), 17 key informant interviews completed the online survey, with a majority Region. Our work is founded on targeted and an online survey that was completed of them (Figure. 1-5) being: working research to better inform programming, policy by 35 people. ciswomen of iTaukei Fijian descent, between and advocacy work on improving women’s There was an overall consensus by the ages of 34-41, with a tertiary level status in Fiji and the Region. the women that participated in the focus education. Of this total, 65% identifed that In terms of work, so much has been done group discussions (FDGs) that the formal growing old in Fiji was diffcult. and continues on, around empowering young retirement age should revert to 60 years from Participants to the survey, were given a women, FWRM acknowledges though that the current 55 years. Participants that had list of issues that were identifed in both the not much has been done in Fiji to address retired at 55 years of age shared that they still key informant interviews and focus group the lack of agency that women face as they had much to offer in terms of contribution to discussions, and were asked to rank them by age in today’s society. Fiji’s labour force but that after retirement, most important- 89% agreed that adequate The aim of this study is to inform FWRM’s healthcare to relieve health concerns that future programmes in addressing some of “There was an overall develop with ageing was a growing issue of the issues that Fiji’s ageing women have concern, while only 18% agreed that sense identifed. And recognised as systematic consensus by the women of isolation was an issue for ageing women. issues they face in Fiji’s ever-growing ageing They were also given a list of contributing population. Additionally, to inform policy that participated in the factors (again identified from both the reform surrounding Fiji’s National Ageing focus group discussions key informant interviews and focus group policy, in consideration with Fiji’s National discussions), and were asked to tick the Gender policy. Fiji’s National Ageing Policy (FGDs) that the formal multiple factors they thought contributed to was introduced and implemented in 2011 the issues they agreed with—29% agreed as part of a four-year programme, while the retirement age should revert that no priority was given to resourcing of National Gender policy was more recently to 60 years from the current growing population. This was identifed introduced and implemented in 2014. as the highest agreed contributing factor 55 years.” amongst participants.

10 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES Perceptions of Young Women in Fiji Consultative study undertaken by Fiji Women’s Rights Movement By Mamta Chand

What is a young woman?

The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement carried out consultations in the Central, Western and Northern division to help discern society’s perception of what or who is a young woman. FWRM engages with young women through it’s core programmes and what began as an internal research to strengthen these models, turned into a more insightful outcome that transcended age defnition of young women. This is not the frst time FWRM has carried out research of this nature, as in 2014, 60 young women were consulted on the age bracket that defned a young The Young Women Central Consultations women. According to the report, “a young women is someone who identifes as a perceptions of young women and the Another prevalent issue that was being woman and is between the ages of 18- challenges they faced would help further raised was gender discrimination at work 35.” It also highlighted the participants stregnthen the organisation’s responses to places. This was raised by women with concerns on the lack of attention towards address different human rights issues. technical skills (salesperson, engineers, advancing issues of girls and children Some of the main concerns highlighted traffic control) who were assigned to between the ages of 13-17. by participants during discussions included administration or offce work instead of In July 2016, FWRM’s Intergenerational sexual harassment and discrimination the work they were hired to do while male Women’s Leadership Team (formerly Young at workplace, peer pressure, struggles colleagues with lesser experiences received Women in Leadership Programme) reached to communicate with parents, lack of promotions. Concerns were raised about out to 157 diverse participants through accessibility for women with disability, men with lesser qualifcations being hired 16 focus groups across the 3 divisions. transphobia and rejection from society. over women who were much highly qualifed, The space created in these consultations One of the most recurring themes among women being denied opportunities to gain were inclusive and safe, so that the girls women under 25 years was the lack of work experience in the feld, particularly and young women were able to express trust and support from parents. There construction, and the opportunity is instead themselves freely. were suggestions made to have workshops awarded to men. Majority of the participants identifed 15 dedicated to building trust between young It was clear from the discussions that to 24 years as being young , with minimum women and their parents whereas other young women were still very much regarded age of 15 years and maximum age of 35 participants thought it should be a parents- within the patriarchal lens of “wives, years. only workshop. The sessions would be mothers, sisters and daughters” instead of Within the emotional conversations, it educational on how to provide a better trust equal members of society. It’s important to was clear that the defnition of young women and support system for their children. strengthen the confdence of young women was not confned to the parameters of age Women also shared that they were and girls, to acknowledge their leadership but the varying cultures, social structures not able to participate in personal and skills and the positive contributions they and contexts of how the women lived. professional development workshops and make to society. For example when a woman in her early trainings because parents or in-laws did not This emphasizes the importance of twenties is married and has a child, she is no allow them. The older women present in programmes like FWRM’s GIRLS (Grow longer considered young. The restriction upon the focal group discussions said they would Inspire Relate Lead Succeed) which has them further pushes them away from having a allow their children to attend workshops, effectively created a platform of inclusive social life due to their responsibilities, hence but the fathers “overrule us”. This was and open dialogue between girls and their they feel they are no longer young. Whilst a common across all ethnicities. parents. This relationship-building was one single 30 year old woman without a child may Street harassment was highlighted by the of the major feedbacks from the research be considered young. participants, as young as 14 to 55 years of participants. As part of the research, it was vital age. They shared their experiences on being Additionally, there needs to be more to document, not just the participants harassed on the streets. commitment and attention to strengthen views on defining young women, but “In public the men, they look, poke, policies against sexual harassment and their experiences, lived realities and the pass comments and touch you”- 14 year discrimination in the work offce. challenges they face. Unpacking existing old participant.

11 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES CAPACITY BUILDING Feminist Sharing: DAWN Training Institute 2016 Feminist Sharing : DAWN Training Institute 2016 By Monica Waqanisau

In late 2016, I was fortunate to be selected from over hundreds of applications to be part of an intensive three-week training, the DAWN Training Institute. The training was organised by an organisation known as Development Alternatives with Women for a New Era (DAWN), which is a network of feminist researchers and activists from the global south. The training was framed to build the capacity of younger feminists to engage in analysis and advocacy on key global, regional and national issues. The training was the ffth of its kind and was convened in Negambo, Sri Lanka. Previous trainings were held in other parts of the Global South with the inaugural DTI in Bagalore, India and following on with Monetvideo, Uruguay; Cape Town, South Africa and Siep Reap, Cambodia. There were a total of 27 participants from all over the Global South representing Latin America & the Caribbean, Africa, Aisia and Participants at the DAWN Training Institute the Pacifc. As one of the four Pacifc representatives, I was interested in learning more developing nations and their sustainable and presented on the impacts of Free about DAWN’s key thematic areas on development. Market Trade on Climate Change and the development, that is Political Economy I was also fortunate to share the DTI Oceans, which came under her session on of Globalization (PEG), Political Ecology experience with Viva Tatawaqa from FWRM’s Extractivism. and Sustainability (PEAS), Sexual and feminist sister organisation Diverse Voices The training was mostly work but we did Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), and Action for Equality Fiji (DIVA). With manage to ft in some sightseeing when and Political Restructuring and Social Viva and the other Pacifc participants, we we could muster the energy on weekends. Transformation (PRST) piqued my interest were able to articulate our own Fiji and And while I came away a little shell- to pursue further learning Pacifc narrative and contextual struggles shocked after that three week intensive The frst week, in my experience, was that we faced and had the opportunity training I was still appreciative that such by far the most intense. Each day’s session to and learn from other participants on a training was available to young global would begin at 8:45am (local time) and their responses to similar issues and the south professional feminists intending to end at 5:30pm or 6pm some evenings. All impacts of this context. We were able to continue working on challenging patriarchal 27 participants were placed into groups delve further into the nuance of issues by stereotypes within the development aside from our regional groupings to help us inviting Resource persons outside of the paradigm. In fact, in parting I would like through the upcoming days which involved DAWN Executive Committee who presented to strongly encourage the need for more a lot of group analysis and presentation They shared on their respective areas Pacifc feminists to take up the challenge work. of work. Some of the noteable ones that and give more representation to our Pacifc One of the main takeaways from my not only provided nuanced insight but also context at the next DTI training. It will be a DTI experience was the peer learning from left an impression were Mariama Williams challenging space but an enriching one as fellow participants. It was both encouraging from Jamaica who shared on Gender and well and I strongly recommend undergoing as well as insightful to hear that while Climate Finance, Ranja Sengupta of India, this training if you truly want to learn more country contexts were varied, we each had who talked on Free Trade Agreements and about how your work around gender fts into recurring issues that were triggered from the consequences of Free Trade Markets, development and globalistion. larger global developments. For example including fellow Fijian, Maureen Pejueli of the adverse effects of free markets on Pacifc Network on Globalisation (PANG) who came in during the second week

12 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES CAPACITY BUILDING Going to AWID By Losana Tuiraviravi

A time to celebrate the gains, analyse the lessons, assess our realities, inspire and renew ourselves and strategise across movements to strengthen solidarity and leverage diverse collective powers. This was the space provided by the 13th AWID International Forum that was held from the 8th-11th September, 2016 at Bahia, Brazil and I was fortunate to be part of the Pacifc delegation in attendance. AWID International Forum It was my frst time being part of the AWID forum and I was looking forward to trade, Finance, Aid and Development ILGA’s organised space, including the the opportunity to meet other feminists practices,’ ‘Navigating Diversity - The sessions and workshops were of course a from around the world. I wanted to fnd experiences of the Fiji Women’s Forum,’ great opportunity to learn from other activists out more about feminism and human and ‘Photo Exhibition - Realising Women’s but the best networking times were during the rights, the different existing mechanisms Human Rights in the Pacifc.’ informal gatherings. I was able to meet with from around the globe and the different The 5 Pacific sessions were led by a transman activist from Yogkaryta, Indonesia experiences related to this. I hoped to meet organisations that shared their experiences, and we connected over our shared concern and women’s human rights defenders and share challenges, successes of working together passion for the freedom of West Papua. It was December 1, Global Flag Raising Day for West experiences, as well as, how their work was as women’s organisation and movements in Papua and we quickly organised a Morning similar and different from our work at FWRM. the Pacifc. This also offered the opportunity Star fag and approached other conference The biggesst highlight was being part for the Pacifc women’s organisations to attendees to tell them about the West Papua of a session at AWID, Navigating diversity: mobilise between themselves and this was issue. We took several #GlobalFlagRaising The experience of the Fiji Women’s Forum, in the form of fundraising and sharing of photos and posted on social media. as a panelist along with (former) FWRM resources. During the post meeting event of It’s these spaces that allow us to build Gender & Transitional Justice Team Leader the Pacifc delegation, we were able to refect, networks, partnerships and collaborate Veena Singh. Also part of this panel was strengthen the movement building within and over the seas, to lobby for our issues. On Adi Finau Tabukau coro from the Soqosoqo strategies taken from the experience at the my previous trip, I was able to meet and Vakamarama-iTaukei (SSVM) and Joanne event towards the work implemented from connect with Alok-Vaid Menon of Darkmatter. Hayter from the International Women’s local, national and international engagements Eventually, we were able to organise for him Development Agency (IWDA) as moderator. of Pacifc women’s organisations. to do a workshop in Fiji and performance in Noelene Nabulivou from DIVA for Equality Participating in AWID helped me refect Suva- both events were successfully held in (Fiji) was also part of the opening plenary on the work that I do and how I contribute September last year. on “Our Current Realities,” an opportunity to women’s movement building in my region. We also had the opportunity to hear from to share the realities of Pacifc women’s It was a memorable experience and a great Vitit Muntarbhorn, the frst Independent movement on issues around Climate moment to rejuvinate my feminism as a Expert on Protection against Violence and Discrimination based on Sexual Ecological Justice, Women’s Human Rights Pacifc Indeginous woman. Orientation and Gender Identity where he and Pacifc Activism. highlighted fve key goals , decriminalization, At arrival, a pre-meeting of the Pacifc depathologisation, recognition of gender delegation took place, allowing us to meet Movement Building identity, cultural inclusion and empathisation. regional participants face-to-face, connect The Independent Experts’ position has only and strategise for the upcoming events. We Refections from ILGA been around for a few months and already talked about how we could support each there have been two attempts to undo the other, by attending Pacifc events and sharing By Kris Prasad SOGI resolution passed in Geneva in June on sessions we had attended. 2016. The delegation was made up of 21 Over 700 LGBTQI activists from around the The issue of LGBTIQ rights remains participants from Fiji, Solomon Islands, world attended the International Lesbian divisive and it is hoped that small island Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Samoa. Gay Bisexual Trans and Intersex Association developing states such as Fiji can take the lead in affrming human rights at the UN. Organisations present from the Pacific (ILGA) World conference, which was held Hopefully, more activists and organisers from were, FWRM, FWF, RRRT- SPC, DIVA for from November 28 to December 2, 2016 in Fiji would be able to participant in the 2018 Equality, Soqosoqo Vakamarama i-Taukei, Bangkok, Thailand. Paci c Disability Forum, Haus of Khameleon, conference as it will be held in Wellington, I was fortunate to represent the Fiji New Zealand. YWCA-PNG, PANG, and Women in Media Women’s Rights Movement and Drodrolagi Solomon Islands. This was the largest Paci Movement as one of two Fiji representatives c representation at AWID. that was present at the event including As it was, there were 5 different Pacifc Sulique Waqa from the Haus of Khameleon. sessions including; ‘Pacifc Feminist: Moving This was the third time I attended ILGA from translucent movements to transgender and I was keen on reconnecting with fellow justice’, ‘Pacifc small island feminisms: queer activists, , especially from the Global Climate and ecological imperatives that South, as well as, use the space to refect and change our organising’, ‘Trading away feminist re-energise my activism. futures - A critique of unfair, corporatized

13 ILGA FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES WOMEN IN SPORTS

Olympian Feminist By Maryann Lockington

A feminist activist, racing across a grass- covered pitch to the roars of a crowd in Rio De Janeiro. Timaima Tamoi is part of the Management Collective at Diverse Voices and Action (DIVA) for Equality Fiji and a national sevens rugby player who was selected to play in the Rio Summer Olympics 2016. Tamoi shared her journey on breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. With paternal links to the village of Ketei on the island of Totoya in the Lau group and maternal links to Levuka, Tamoi grew Timaima Tamoi up moving between the old capital and Viti Levu in her formative years. Steering Committee of fve to pilot a DIVA had to play catch-up most of the time. After “I was born in Suva and early on activity ‘The SRHR Women in Sports and making the team to Rio, I realized I had to moved to Levuka, Ovalau where I attended Well- Being group.’ make a choice and this year I have chosen kindergarten. From Levuka, we moved back A ftting endeavour, with Tamoi’s passion to step down from the Fijiana team to focus to Viti Levu. We stayed in New Town where I for feminism and experience in sports. on DIVA work.” attended Assemblies of God Primary School “I got my start out in rugby through a Whether on the rugby pitch or working from Class 1 to Class 8,” she wrote. good friend in 2012. A group of my friends with DIVA, Tamoi continues as inspiration Tamoi began secondary school education were getting together to form their own to girls and women on pursuing your dreams at Assemblies of God High School before women’s rugby club and this good friend and facing challenges. moving back to Ovalau to complete Form 5 approached me at that time and asked “Last but not least just wanna share that and Form 6 at Levuka Public School. if I wanted to play, just to make up the I don’t take fear of failure to stop me doing “After that period, I returned to Suva numbers,” she wrote. what I really care about and it took me quite and fnished off Form 7 in Laucala Bay Deciding to try rugby without knowing a long time to develop a voice, and now that Secondary School. In 2009, I enrolled in where it would lead her, Tamoi began I have it, I am not going to be silent.” the Fiji Institute of Technology.” playing at club level before she realised Her first brush with feminism and that she “really enjoyed playing” and was activism was through an invite from a quite skilled at the game. friend. Tamoi participated in workshops and “I was called up to join the Fijiana “Making the team to Rio sessions carried out by DIVA before being Extended Squad in 2014 and after much invited to become part of the Management sweat and tears I fnally made my debut in was something special. Collective. 2015,” she wrote. I was so nervous when “I did not hesitate in accepting the One year later, Tamoi was trekking across offer as I really liked the work DIVA does, the rugby pitch in Brazil with the hopes of coach called me into the and I fnd that the work they do really a nation behind her. accommodates marginalised women with “Making the team to Rio was something room. We sat down and he diverse sexuality and they create spaces special. I was so nervous when coach began telling me all these and an environment that make it okay for called me into the room. We sat down and us to be who we are and not worrying about he began telling me all these things, like things, like my strengths what society thinks about us,” she wrote. my strengths and weaknesses and how Tamoi wrote that she was extremely he thought I was doing so far. I just sat and weaknesses and how he proud of being part of DIVA and valued there and couldn’t do much beyond listen thought I was doing so far. the chance to learn from others and share and wait. Finally after a couple of minutes critiques openly and constructively. or so he just looks over at me and says I just sat there and couldn’t Now, Tamoi along with fellow MC ‘Congratulations, I’m taking you to Rio’. Sereima Damuni, are working with a The smile that broke out on my face was do much beyond listen and the biggest one of my life. I was so happy wait. Finally after a couple “I was called up to join the and excited and relieved that all my hard work had paid off. This was and always will of minutes or so he just Fijiana Extended Squad be my most signifcant moment in my rugby career, making the team to Rio. “ looks over at me and says sometime in 2014 and after She has since continued her work with ‘Congratulations, I’m taking much sweat and tears I DIVA, and playing rugby, though she missed two rugby world series due to an ankle you to Rio.” finally made my debut in injury. “Coming back home and resuming work 2015” with DIVA was hard due to the fact that I

14 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES OPINION PIECE

I can recall many stories from friends We need to encourage bodily integrity A vagina is a vagina. who have had children, sharing their shock and teach our children that they own their horror at not being told about what happens bodies and no one should ever be able to Just say it. to your vagina when giving birth. infringe on that ownership. Our bodies are Every one talks about the life-giving not to be continually sexualised and our By Maryann Lockington properties or the pleasure chest, that vagina is a vagina is a vagina is a vagina. is, the vagina. It’s the usual narrative of No one, not men nor society should ever I feel like this is a strange piece to be limiting women to their gendered roles of stake claim on whether it be talked about writing in 2017 and yet, the nervousness “child-bearing” and the mainstream sexual or shunned. It is an essential part of us, I’m feeling in trying to word this correctly, objectifcation of women. women and we must acknowledge it and is essentially the whole problem. The vagina’s importance to a woman’s understand it. health on the other hand, is too taboo to Why are we censoring the word ‘vagina’? talk about. Society either tells you that it’s Say it. Vagina. The conversation has been lurking in special and too sacred to talk about or that and out of the limelight recently, on both it’s dirty or shameful. However it’s pitched, References mainstream and social media. Vagina. it’s still problematic. • Director of Public Prosecutions (2017) This is more notably tied to the topic of It’s an important discussion. It’s our ODPP MEDIA UPDATE ODPP Rape and sex education in schools and homes. The vaginas that tell us if something is wrong Sexual Offences Statistics – January rhetoric remains the same, remove “graphic with our reproductive systems, which when 2017. Available at: http://odpp.com. images and text” from school books.Vagina. ignored, puts your life at risk. The vagina fj/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/ODPP- Not a typo. I will randomly write, vagina and can show you symptoms and early signs Rape-and-Sexual-Offences-Statistics- hopefully by the end of this read, you’ve for diseases like ovarian cancer, STIs, and January-2017.pdf (Accessed: 3 March seen it enough times to say it loud and endometriosis. 2017). proud. Vagina. There is also menopause, which is an • Danford, I. and Reece, L. (2017) ‘305 Getting prickly over correctly calling your important stage in a woman’s reproductive cases of child neglect reported last year, body parts by their names, is an interesting health. This conversation is rarely ever had Fijivillage’. Available at: http://fjivillage. stance to take in the face of numerous because we’re forced to talk about the com/news/305-cases-of-child-neglect- sexual offences being reported by the vagina. reported-last-year-2rks59/ (Accessed: media. Child rape cases continue to make How many of us have blanched at the 04 March 2017). the headlines way too often. In January thought of visiting the doctors when we • Simmons, M. (2014) ‘Fiji high on this year, the youngest sexual offence suspect there is something wrong “down teenage pregnancies list,’ Fiji times victim was fve and in February, he was there”? How would you explain to your online. Available at: http://www. only six. (Director of Public Prosecutions, doctor about your “vagina” while trying to fjitimes.com/story.aspx?id=361973 2017) According to the Director of Public pretend, that’s not what it’s called. (Accessed: 3 March 2017) Prosecutions statistics, in February alone, How many of us are wincing, at there have been ‘24 victims of the 54 seeing so many “vaginas” on this page? separate incidents (sexual offences) of Uncomfortable? That’s the point and that’s which 14 victims were under the age of the problem. 18”. It’s time to normalise the word, “vagina” Teenage pregnancy is another topical and deconstruct the myths around it. We issue that continues to make headlines. can’t afford to continue reacting when Just recently, it was reported that there there’s a sex-offence being reported, or were 109 teen births in February this year. abortion, or teen pregnancy, when we are (Danford, and Reece, 2017). For a small the ones contributing to these issues. country, having a rate of 36 teen births per 1000 girls in the 15-19 age group, is alarming. (Simmons, 2014). We cannot even begin to tackle these issues if we’re not allowing ourselves, especially those with vaginas, to take ownership of our body. Understanding your body and owning it, isn’t only empowering but imperative. Not only in relation to safety but also, health, and it promotes body positive mindsets. This reluctance to talk about the vagina is dangerous because while we are succumbing to the delicate sensitivities of society’s entrenched patriarchy, we (those with vaginas) are missing out on full personhood. How many of us are able to draw out a diagram of the vagina and correctly label our bits? How many of us have shied away from talking about normal biological processes like periods and vaginal discharge? “ The Clitoria by any other name, doesn’t make sense.”

15 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES NGOCHR: Human Rights Day 2016 -A Recap By Menka Goundan

The NGO Coalition for Human Rights hosted the Annual Human Rights Day march on Saturday, December 2016. Hundreds gathered to march from Rodwell Road to Sukuna Park where a half-day activity Members of the NGO Coalition on Human Rights, supporters, colleagues and friends took place. The city came to a stand still at the Human Rights Day celebrations as Rodwell Rd and Stinson Parade flled with chants and solidarity calls from human rights activists, advocates and supporters. With FWRM as Secretariat, the Coalition, The 2016 Human Rights Day drew much FWRM’s frst year as in 2016, continued to amplify various attention due to the largely publicized human rights concerns through press permit issue towards the lead up to the Secretariat for the statements and media alerts. march. On 23rd November 2016, the Even in the midst of challenges such as permit to march on Saturday morning was NGO Coalition for arbitrary arrests, allegations of torture and declined by the Fiji Roads Authority citing an initial permit rejection to host the annual major traffc disruptions as the reason. Human Rights Human Rights day event, the NGOCHR and The outgoing NGOCHR interim chair said, FWRM Secretariat continued on with its “celebrating human rights was an essential By Monica Waqanisau resolve to advocate and lobby around the part of building individual and community protection of Human Rights, particularly support to realizing and addressing human Last year, 2016, was quite a year for the in Fiji. The Coalition utilised the State’s rights issues. Having a march on a Saturday Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) as international commitments such as country morning for only one hour is surely not a Secretariat for the NGO Coalition for Human recommendations committed to under Fiji’s big ask.” Rights (NGOCHR). It was FWRM’s frst year Universal Periodic Review in 2013 and its In the following days there was much serving its three-year term as Secretariat for ratifcation of the Convention Against Torture uproar about the issue. On 30th November the Coalition. FWRM’s Executive Director in 2016 to hold the State accountable 2016 Fiji Roads Authority granted a permit was voted in as incoming Chair and FWRM for its commitments to safeguarding and to march after an application was made by Secretariat in January 2016, and took over improving Fiji’s compliance to global NGOCHR on November 28th for the same the role from sister organisation the Fiji human rights standards. march. Women’s Crisis Centre. FWRM would like to take this opportunity Despite these challenges and a gloomy The appointment of FWRM as Secretariat to thank the respective coalition members Saturday morning overcast it was fulflling is a second of its kind and 2016 marked a its supporters and the ever-resilient to see the colorful turnout at the Suva Flea frst for the Secretariat as FWRM’s internal network of Human Rights Defenders that Market and later at the Sukuna Park. People leadership transition saw a change in Chair has assisted in its frst year as Secretariat of all diversities and a myriad of groups of the NGOCHR from Tara Chetty, who was and welcomes the new year of collaboration marched in solidarity to demand for our elected in January, 2016 to Interim Chair and solidarity to working towards a Fiji that basic human rights and freely expressing Michelle Reddy. Fortunately, the internal respects and protects Human Rights. our concerns and raising awareness on transition of FWRM’s leadership did not critical human rights issues. Marchers and slow down the quick response to which supporters joined from as far as Kadavu, NGOCHR responded to Human Rights Nadroga and Naitasiri raised issues of concerns. concern around violence against women The coalition comprises of representatives and children, mining and extraction and of Civil Society Organisations who climate justice. collectively under the NGOCHR banner World Human Rights Day is celebrated amplify human rights concerns that worldwide on 10th December commemorating occur within Fiji and the region. As the day on which the United Nations General the Secretariat FWRM took the lead in Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration coordinating the Coalition in issuing Press of Human Rights in 1948. Locally, the Statements (11 in total), Media Alerts (1 NGO Coalition for Human Rights along with in total) and engaged in issuing Parliament supporters of human rights march the streets Submissions- specifcally submissions for of Fiji every World Human Rights Day. Fiji the Information Bill (August, 2016) and Women’s Rights Movement is currently the the Public Order Amendment Bill (October, chair and secretariat for the NGOCHR. 2016) in its frst year. Our frst term also allowed the NGOCHR opportunity to provide feedback for the Fiji Human Rights and Marchers at the annual Human Rights Anti-Discrimination Commission Day March.

16 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES REVIEW When No means No! Review of the movie PINK By Menka Goundan

“This is a movie with a simple message that our society has made complicated. It conveys that NO means En- O, NO! There is nothing as a middle ground or invoking responses to sexual signals.”

Whilst Indian press sold PINK as an attempt icon to explain the concept of consent at shining the light on the way women are overshadows the powerful characters that the perceived in India and as a closer look at three female protagonists play to an extent the sexism that women in India face on a but nonetheless the movie manages to raise daily basis. I think the movie captured the critical discussion on consent. everyday plight of women living beyond This is a movie with a simple message India. There were multiple scenes where that our society has made complicated. It the issue was real for me and other women conveys that NO means En- O, NO! There around me. The unfavorable structural is nothing as a middle ground or invoking impediments illustrated by a female police responses to sexual signals. Engaging with a inspector, outlined the grave reality of person in willing and mutually consented sex entrenched patriarchy and often times means there was a level of satisfaction and unjustifed enforcement of even the most undoubted agreement from all parties engaged progressive laws. in it. Whilst PINK will spike frustration and Shoojit Sircar (director) deconstructs the anger unraveling the goddesses within us; I notion of consent and leaves the audience defnitely recommend the movie alongside questioning their sexual modesty or perhaps the Indian Express’ 4.5 star rating. even morality on what might or might not have been consent. The saga of male entitlement and the urgency of patriarchy to portray the righteousness of male’s sexual decisions based on circumstances like On 16th September 2016, the Indian social location (resort?), atmosphere (party?) and genre movie PINK starring the icon Amitabh state of the woman (drunk?) raise pertinent “The use of a male icon Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu, Kirti Kulhari, insights on how we have continually justifed Andrea Tariang released worldwide with a to explain the concept of and given in to patriarchy. But beyond all clear message that NO means NO. Despite this was a woman’s outward presentation consent overshadows the much rally for the movie to be screened in that was examined extensively, her dress, local cinemas, it was disappointing to see her language, her social interactions and her powerful characters that the yet another bold movie being shunned by sexual appetite. “An exchange of a vulgar cinemas like past social successes: ‘Bol’ and three female protagonists joke or a short dress meant that she was ‘Angry Indian Goddesses.’ ready and available,” were just a few notable play to an extent but The movie based on the social trajectory dialogues from the movie. of consent, explores the topic in a real and Creative reference to the ‘Rulebook of nonetheless the movie defnitely non-Bollywood fashion. Based on the Girl’s Safety Manual’ drives the idea of the realties of three young Delhi women, the manages to raise critical regressive social norms that women and girls plot and the characters are easily identifable are expected to follow. The surreal demands discussion on consent” with any young woman living in this day and of society for women and girls that exist in an age. The questions, the arguments and the undocumented format but one is expected to “accusations” made during the powerful follow if you are of the female species. The court scenes are those any woman must set back to this movie is Amitabh Bachchan’s have encountered in their lives. The “are you larger than life persona which depicts him a virgin?” question- I am sure every woman championing this idea. The use of a male must have encountered at the very least!

17 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES REVIEW

Barge in patriarchy (eye roll). Mahavir know what would be done to his pants) and Dangal Review and Daya were no exception in being ready to Dangal chora’s when they made conditioned. With daughters put on planet ridiculous comments. By Mamta Chand earth to be married to men (cough cough) Despite getting criticism from the and have babies (I love babies) he locks community Senior Phogat did not budge. A away his dreams in a tin box. Mahavir loves lovable father but a stern coach managing his daughters. He takes parenting seriously to separate his emotions. He affectionately helping the girls with school work. called Geeta, pehlwan (wrestler/champ). I Geeta and Babita, Sheroes of the movie (I wouldn’t mind being called pehlwan. love them to bits, I wana be them but well, The movie beautifully and emotionally fries) the elder Phogat chori’s (girls) have captures countless moments. The interactions a tussle with the village chora’s for name between the girls with their parents are calling. It is delightful to watch Mahavir’s enjoyable to watch and is impeccably placed. nazaria (viewpoint) towards his daughters AK captivates you with his act. He is fawless change seeing them scruffy and triumphant. with one glance capturing you with his Chori’s thrashing up chora’s in Haryana emotions. Larger than life, Mr Perfectionist village, that’s radical. The hard core training did not overshadow any of the characters. for the two girls begins for Gold! He was Perfect. I would have liked to see Reviews for Dangal has ranged from stronger character portrayal for Daya though feminism to nationalism. The father hell Sakshi Tanwar carried out her role effortlessly. bent on driving his dream on his daughters Both the younger and the older version of with winning Gold for the country. Distortion Geeta and Babita are brilliantly played by Zaira of Phogat‘s life and cinematic dramatization Wasim/Fatima Sana and Suhani Bhatnagar/ has been argued. There were moments in Sanya Malhotra respectively. I absolutely the movie that was discomforting making me idolised the do-not-mess-with-me-look of silently scream No! young Geeta winning her frst Dangal. The However, I firmly believe it is an ferocious battle between father and daughter extraordinary story defying gender taboos is exceptional in the akhara with older Geeta particularly from Haryana the extremely determined to prove to her father the new conservative state of north India depicted hell wrestling techniques are more effective than for girls who are seen as burdens, notorious his older ones. The iconic nail biting Clash for child marriage, female foeticide, honour of the Dangal’s leaves you in waterworks and I am an Aamir Khan fan (if you not, well I killings and low female literacy rate. breathless seeing Mahavir struggle against have issues with you) tagged by fans the A chori to step into the akhara? (Wrestling his daughter. And the unwavering daughter Bollywood Perfectionist. AK is a powerful ring or pit). And to top it off through the male- wanting him to lose. Of course I cheered advocate through the Indian television talk only sports. Not male-dominated because when he lost. But then I felt bad. But then show Satyamev Jayate (Truth Alone Triumphs) there were never any women.The conformist was grinning for Geeta. on women’s human rights and social justice. Haryanvi’s would have never considered this. I was seriously bawling when Geeta sobs Encouraging you to watch it if you have not! The Phogat girls would have never dreamed on the phone to her papa after losing several When the biopic of Dangal (wrestling) was about this. Both Daya and Mahavir battled games. The papa’s gripping expression leaves announced I was looking forward to seeing the status quo to train the Phogat girls. Senior you stricken knowing his daughter needs him. him take on the role of a wrestler. Once the Phogat would have given the same gruelling And he was there for her. Watching Geeta frst preview was out, I got hooked (so did my exercises and tough coaching to the boys. He battle in the fnal scene at the Commonwealth friends). The preview of 3mins 26secs gave was determined to mould Geeta and Babita Games makes you feel you are watching the me goose bumps and had me in sniffes. I am into the best of the best Dangal’s. The girls actual game. Girl, you could learn some fast- the queen of sniffes. Dangal is a must watch. hated it. Who wants to wake up at 4.00-5.00 witted cool techniques to bring down your in the morning to go for a long hard run and opponent! Warning; Spoilers. other hard-crore exercise? (Ok maybe you, but Check out the funky sound track Dhaakad duh). And forbidden to eat the yummy pani (someone who is powerful and strong, Dangal is based on Mahavir Singh Phogat puri’s (spicy tangy snack – water bread). This someone people are afraid of) sung by non- (I really like his name) former Indian national is unforgivable by my standards. other than Aamir Khan dedicated to Geeta champion wrestler whose dream was to win A disconcerting scene was the crossroads and Babita. And all the girls in the world! Gold at the Commonwealth Games (every for the Phogat chori’s. It took a child bride, 3 movies old, Nitesh Tiwari has done an athletes dream, I reckon. I would love to a friend of the girls, to make them realize incredible direction going on to win the 62nd win Gold for Fiji alas I love extra fries and that papa (father) was fghting the appalling Filmfare (one of the oldest flm events) Best not exercise) but was unable to afford the masculine system for them. Fighting for their Director Award. Dangal saw AK winning Best international platform. As most father’s he transformative future. Actor along with Best Film and Best Action made up his mind to live his dream through “I wish my father was like yours. “I’m also. his chora (boy) yet to be born. On this chora going to cook and clean for a man I’ve never Mahavir Singh Phogat and Daya Shobha note, he is from Haryana and I love their met. At least yours is preparing you for Kaur set ablaze the pioneering female dialect. I wonder if my ancestors were from your future.” The sheer power of the child wrestles in Haryana with Geeta and Babita. there. Hmmmm. bride’s soft utterance leaves you angry and Geeta does not only win Gold for India but Boom! He has four amazing daughters anguished. for every girl child sparking courage and with his wife Daya Shobha Kaur despite, The Phogat girls were smashing gender revolution. ahem, trying various methods of having a son stereotypes getting hostility from the I hope Bollywood works harder on the from doing it on a Sunday to feeding cows by traditionalist community from getting their signifcant representation of women in the the direction of the elders in the village (Go long tresses chopped (well it was forced cinema moving away from the male gaze. ahead, try some methods if you planning for a chop chop to avoid lice as per Senior Phogat), With movies like Dangal amongst others fans boy, tell me how it was, I mean if a cute little training in tee’s and in their cousins long can be optimistic. boy comes along). pants made into shorts (poor bugger didn’t

18 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES TRIBUTES

planned great things while Peni’s youngest, people to be heard, to explore and refect on baby Eli and infant Zoe, played amongst inequalities, process grief, trauma and joy, us on the mat. Their elder sister Jade was learn new skills, gain confdence, advocate in school. Later Peni gave WAC a base in for themselves and forge new pathways her own home, which she never saw as too both at a personal and community level. small for the clutter of actors, collective If Peni were to read these words she members, and those who came seeking wouldn’t recognise them as describing help. When she moved she took all with her, herself – she was self-effacing about her including to a house next door to Virisila achievements and more remarkable than Buadromo, former FWRM Director. she knew. Not so long before she died, Peni Virisila described her as a peace- moved herself, her family and her animals builder, an animal lover; a hippie, a social to her own house, which she could fnally justice activist and a strong ally to at risk afford to build at Wainadoi. It was a home communities. She had a strong sense of like her heart – big, open, generous living community and had no qualms in voicing a spaces and verandas where people sat on dissenting view if she felt that people were mats and continued the conversations being wronged. She was brave, feisty, ferce she had started. They still reverberate and always looking for ways to make this through the women’s movement and many world a better place for everyone. of the communities who miss the sight of “Peni’s cutting edge work in restorative the purple and white WAC van lurching Remembering Peni justice, activist and playback theatre through the potholes to bring messages created inclusive and safe spaces for of conciliation, justice and equality and Moore many people who were marginalised by to help them fnd the courage to make the mainstream, particularly after the changes. By Seona Smiles 2000 crisis in Fiji. When her work was connected to the policy work carried out Toiling up a fight of elderly stairs to a set by organisations like FWRM, our analysis of poster-papered offces opening onto and advocacy was strengthened for the a wooden veranda above a busy road in lived experiences of the most marginalised the heart of Suva, anxious, earnest, busy, within our communities. This often meant sometimes exhausted women found a fount that FWRM’s work was better targeted and of kindness, understanding, empathy and had a bigger impact to create meaningful energy in FWRM’s frst coordinator, Peni and sustained change.” Moore. Long since then the Fiji Women’s Both Peni and Viri were animal lovers and Rights Movement has moved on to new the WAC collective had to brave a barrage of premises and new projects. Peni also barking to get to the big sitting room where moved on, but both retained their central meetings were held, new theatre moves concern for women’s human rights, justice demonstrated, and actions for change and peace. Peni passed away just over generated while workshops and rehearsals a year ago but she left us a legacy that ran downstairs. Peni and her actors were continues in the many lives and places she often a few pay days behind when funds ran touched. short and collective members would bring To sketch her life in terms of a curriculum cream bun and cracker rations with them vitae doesn’t reveal what she was really if they expected any afternoon tea. Peni’s about: trained in veterinary nursing and courage shone through not only in speaking worked at the Fiji SPCA for four years out against perceived injustice, but in the Shireen Lateef the before becoming the FWRM Coordinator small things like balancing a virtually non- from 1987 to 1993. She then established existent budget to make sure people had Innovator and Legacy Women’s Action for Change, leading a busfares and children were fed while she miscellaneous group powered mostly by found the wherewithal to keep the show on Maker good intentions to support her work to with the road and venture where angels fear to marginalised communities throughout Fiji, tread. Eulogy By Imrana Jalal including women but also at-risk youth While it seemed, especially to those 13 February 2016. and ex-prisoners. A signifcant feature of involved in seeking funding, that WAC WAC was the establishment of Fiji’s frst often lurched from crisis to crisis, Peni’s Shireen was not a religious person, in fact professional theatre that travelled remote work and her approach to what she was she was an agnostic, but because I do not and isolated areas as well as in troubled able to achieve won international respect. like to think that this is the end for Shireen urban communities, prisons and schools The International Women’s Development and I, for us, it gives me comfort to say – to take messages of hope, conciliation, Agency described her as a formidable “Inna Lillahi Wa inna Ilayhi Raji-un (Surely restoration, equality and justice. Peni was individual and visionary leader for change. we belong to Allah and to him we shall also a commissioner in the Fiji Legal Aid IWDA partnered with WAC from 2000-2013 return)” Commission and a member of the ill-fated and was inspired by her creativity, courage Shireen had a famous plaque in her offce Constitutional Commission. and determination to make change happen. at ADB which said “A woman needs a man The frst meetings of WAC were held in They spoke of her great faith in humanity like a fsh needs a bicycle”. To many at ADB the basement room of St Andrew’s Church and the power of personal transformation. that was their frst introduction to her. hall, where the ‘management collective’ Her work provided opportunities for so many

19 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES TRIBUTES

Shireen Rexina Lateef was my mentor and gender equality were vastly infuenced with passion and drive. These ADB projects and friend and she drove me crazy. We by her. Three things stand out - her pushing designs have beneftted millions and millions fought and argued all the time. We also me to enroll for a Masters in Gender Studies of women in education, water & sanitation, made up pretty quickly, and this was a in Australia, writing my book on Law for agriculture, skills, infrastructure saving strength of our friendship, and part of the Pacific Women, and most importantly, women’s time poverty and empowering reason for its durability, since it has lasted pushing me to establish with Shamima Ali, them socially and economically. She told me over 33 years. She would push me and Atu, Helen Sutherland, Kuini Bavadra and time and time again not to assume that the prod me about writing something that she others, the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement battle was won. And she is right, we really considered mediocre at 9am, remind me (FWRM). It was a journey, that as it turns can’t let down our guard, EVER. ADB is a that at ADB she was my boss and not her out, was one without a return. FWRM has global industry leader in the MDBs in gender friend at 10am, and then would call me become a respected feminist and human mainstreaming in projects, something little before 12 and sheepishly say “how about rights organisation globally. I put many of known outside international gender circles. lunch”? her theories into practice at FWRM even Other Banks look to our system as one to Bossy, tenacious, opinionated, impatient though she was not directly involved. emulate. We, (and countless Asian and for results, always wanting to be right It was this “focused energy,” to quote my Pacifc women) owe a debt of gratitude to and have the last word, no matter how friend Annette Sachs Robertson describing the incomparable innovator and gender unimportant the issue, but she was also Shireen, and being “unemcumbered” by a architect¸ Shireen Lateef, for having the truly brilliant and strategic. husband, children or other dependants to vision, tenacity, fortitude and courage to see Her PhD dissertation was on Indo- distract her, which allowed her to change a the vision through to its practical realization, Women in Fiji: Purdah in the Pacifc Islands huge powerful institution, profoundly and and to ADB for having the grit to embrace it. – focusing on gender equality and on the hopefully forever– with a gender policy Not bad for a girl born in little Fiji! “rule of the danda” (or stick). Shireen had in 1998, and to create a unique gender Shireen Lateef started her career at ADB left Fiji (been extradited out by family as mainstreaming architecture in 2010, to some 24 years ago, after leaving academia it were!) when she was 15 years old. She persuade ADB to adopt it and through that, in Melbourne, as a very junior gender came back to Fiji in 1984 for her PhD feld to inspire many women and men at ADB to specialist, at a time when “gender equality” work, and then came in and out of Fiji until do better for women in Asia and the Pacifc. was a word and concept barely known at she joined ADB in 1992. This is when Suf This ADB system of gender mainstreaming ADB, in fact for many ADB engineers and Dean, Atu Emberson-Bain and I met her. (GM) system is now widely considered a economists at the time, it was a dirty word Caeser (Shahzran), her brother and one of good practice system amongst international and although they accepted it intellectually my closest friends, had told Suf and I, “hey fnancial institutions. they did not want it to have anything to girls, my sister is coming to do research on Some 20 yrs ago every development do with their fnancing projects. That all “feminism and that type of shit” - could agency was requiring gender mainstreaming changed when the GM category system was you meet her and talk to her?” We groaned in projects, but very few people knew what developed and ADB put a target of 40% in but did his bidding. As he would say “you it actually meant in practical terms, and the corporate results framework. Shireen know the rules, girls!” Needless to say we what to do about it. Innovator Shireen retired from the Asian Development Bank all ended up as subjects in her thesis. Lateef developed a 4-tier category system in June 2015 as Senior Advisor (Gender), She was relentless when she wanted with matching criteria in which every ADB and a respected senior staff member. something and she hounded people until it project was categorized for GM. This She cut a very wide swathe at ADB and was done. Countless women in Asia and the measures the extent to which gender designs in the MDB gender circle. Pacifc have probably suffered as a result are integrated into the project designs. Such is the infuence of Shireen – she of Shireen’s theories based on a handful If there were substantive gender designs left such a mark …. I have never been able of Indian Fijian women’s minority opinions! directly benefting women the project was to pay Shireen back for what she has done But seriously, we were blown away by counted towards the top 2 categories, and for me over the 33 years I have known her, Shireen and her ideas. She pushed us to considered GM. Because of this, we know all I can hope is to keep her legacy alive think beyond the narrow confnes of local now what GM is, and what it is not at ADB! and to it “Pay it Forward” to other young small town gossip in Fiji, the latest parties, This 20 year odyssey, changing minds and women. Farewell Shireen, you will live in how we looked, fashion, and, the men in mind sets, not to mention hearts, fnally our hearts forever our lives on whom she had long, loud, and resulted in the 2010 GM Guidelines, strong opinions. Particularly those she and in 2012, the frst target of 40% GM disapproved of as husbands! Thankfully in projects, was introduced in the ADB “Shireen Rexina Lateef was she adored my second husband, Sakiusa corporate Results Framework – the frst my mentor and friend and Tuisolia, and when she broke her hip he Multilateral Development Bank (MDBs) to carried her out of hospital and up and do so. To translate this in non-development she drove me crazy. We down the stairs at her home a number of speak, this means that roughly 45% of our times. I was grateful for my big, muscular projects to over 30 countries in the Asia fought and argued all the indigenous Fijian husband on those days! Pacifc region has explicit gender designs time. We also made up And in the later part of our lives Shireen providing direct gender benefts to women. also spouted unsolicited advice, based on They thus bear the hallmark of Shireen’s pretty quickly, and this was absolutely no experience at all, on how to raise legacy, as gender architect of ADB. our children. She continued to challenge us Shireen’s biggest challenge in her a strength of our friendship, during her yearly visits to Fiji and arguments 25 year career at ADB in Manila was and part of the reason for would be picked up where it let off the year changing the mind sets of ADB staff to before like no time had gone by. accept mainstreaming in their projects its durability, since it has She has had a profound infuence on and to implement quotas for women and many of us, with her feminism and political gender designs to beneft women within lasted over 33 years” views. Many of my own ideas about women the fnancing investments, and she did that

20 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES TRIBUTES

at times. He would often chide me and say, he said or did. During Diwali and Eid every “please be more charitable and forgiving year he would be invited by wealthy Hindus Imrana Bhainee (or IB)!” His magnanimity and Muslims to celebrate with them. He was boundless. He forgave all those who might visit for a few minutes, but he chose wronged him, some of them deeply, even to go to the homes of his other friends for though he kept them at distance. the longer part of the day and evening to I wrote him 2 days before he died that dine – with the Indian Fijian taxi driver his friendship was a privilege that I never who regularly picked him up from Nadi, his take for granted. In the last 6 years since I former secretary Chand, other mainstream left Fiji I saw him twice, once in Melbourne Indian-Fijians with limited connections and in 2013, with the Fiji Women’s Rights power. Such was the measure of the man. Movement gang, whom he had a special When I married my husband, Ratu place in his heart for, and then recently Sakiusa Tuisolia, he gave me a lesson in again in Fiji, in September 2016. We had a Fijian protocol about how to behave in Saki’s whole day together at Suf and William’s and village. He suggested that I should behave then a small dinner the following weekend. out of character and go against my natural So many of us spent the Sunday with him tendencies. I followed his every advice, laughing, eating, and drinking wine. I told knowing that acceptance of an Indian him that there is absolutely nothing to Fijian daughter-in-law would have its own match being with an old tried and tested challenges. He said that unlike many others Remembering Ratu friend, who knows you inside out, warts who suspected me of making a politically and all and who loves you anyway. There is expedient marriage, he knew I spoke the Joni Madraiwiwi no awkwardness, just peacefulness about truth when I said that I had married Saki, being together. The following Saturday frst for his body and second for his mind! By Imrana Jalal night with he, Jon Apted, Gwen Philipps He knew me well. He delighted in Roma’s October 2016. and Avendra Singh was equally precious birth, saying that children like Roma were and it’s always funny to me how we just hope for a future Fiji. One of the greatest privileges of my life quickly fall into our natural roles with each One small but important lesson he was being close friends with Ratu Joni other. I had watched him walk up the stairs, taught me well - when angry, write the Madraiwiwi. He had so many, and his heart slowly and painfully, with my heart in my email. Sleep on it, and then if you still accommodated us all. He was a man of mouth, wondering how many more times feel angry the next day, send it. At least many parts, Roko Tui Bau, a descendant I would get to see him again. We laughed 90% of the time you don’t send it or at of the royal line of Fiji, Lord of the Privy so much that night. He had such a great least not in that form. He taught me to be Council of Tonga, Chief Justice of Nauru, sense of humour and because of the length more measured, more thoughtful and more former Fiji Vice-President, and former Judge and breadth of his knowledge, together with considered. He has left his indelible mark of the High Court of Fiji, and friend to all his droll, wry sense of humour, he could on me, on us all. races, a rare Fijian chief indeed. He ought pithily comment on any leader in the world He said recently that to leave bitterness to have been our Chief Justice or President with great insights. I remember Georg Fritz behind was critical in moving forward and in the last decade of his life. He had the my Austrian friend visiting Fiji, shaking his he was right. He said he loved the fact requisite intellectual brilliance, stature, head in wonder at Ratu Joni’s insights on that I harboured no bitterness about the integrity and a genuinely multiracial heart a former Austrian leader of the Opposition. past. I told him I was too superfcial to and perspective, a rare combination in any In my letter I reminded Ratu Joni (RJ remain bitter, and that to sustain bitterness man, in any person. He had no peer. And as my father affectionately dubbed him required a depth of personality that I those who denied us the opportunity to years ago) that we had had some wonderful lacked. He laughed long and hard. beneft from his formal leadership will be hilarious times together and I treasured To be in his presence was to stand in the judged by history. then all. I told him that I really looked presence of greatness, everyone who met It is hard for me to imagine a Fiji forward to growing old together with him, him or knew him felt it. In that, in this era, without him. I thought we would grow old and that he couldn’t let me down. I asked he remains matchless. together. Long solid friendships that have him to fght, to call on any reserves he had stood the tests of time and vicissitudes of left. We needed him, his leadership and life are rare. I would look forward to his his friendship. In my heart, I knew the time handwritten letters from Fiji, from Nauru could be short. But I hoped for 65, maybe “He had the requisite and elsewhere. He was the only person left 60. When I got the messages from Virisila who wrote them. He and Princess Diana Buadromo, Shamima Ali and Martha Fatiaki intellectual brilliance, we would joke. His letters would make me at 3am in the early hours of the morning in stature, integrity and a laugh out loud, would make me nostalgic Manila, that he had gone, I fell to my knees and yearn to be back home with him in Fiji and wept and thanked God that I had seen genuinely multiracial heart surrounded by our mutual friends. These him only weeks before. Clearly, I was meant have always been the very best times in my to go home, if for no other reason, than and perspective, a rare life. I loved his witty, intelligent insights into to say goodbye. Andrew Mcintyre, thank combination in any man, in people in his letters, with his typical gentle you for including me in your ADB team, humour, and never with any malice. He had unknowingly enabling me to say goodbye. any person” that incredible tolerance for human frailty We all have great stories about him, which is one of the reasons we all loved little anecdotes that explain the man. I him so much, albeit it made us frustrated want to share a few little ones, which say more about him than all the formal things

21 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES Meet our Staff

Executive Director Finance Team Leader Gender & Transitional Intergenerational Nalini Singh Laurette Prasad Justice Team Leader Women’s Leadership

Nalini Singh joined FWRM in January this With over 16 years of experience in the Menka Goundan Team Leader Maraia year, after 15 years of regional work in the feld Accounting and Finanace sector, with a of women’s rights, human rights and gender. degree from Fiji National University majoring Menka joined FWRM in August 2014 as a Tabunakawai Nalini is a graduate of the University of the in Accounting and Finanace. Laurette began Research Offcer and more recently transited to South Pacifc, with combined arts and science at FWRM as the Finance Offcer before Team Leader Gender and Transitional Justice. Maraia has had more than 7 years work degrees. Over the course of her career, she has being appointed as the Finance Team Leader She has 5 years work experience in the CSO experience in the development sector working developed a wide range of experience having in 2016. In the same year, she gained sector. Menka is an alma mater of the Eastern specifcally in the area of gender equality, worked with the Pacifc Regional Human Rights provisional membership with the Fiji Institute Mennonite University and the University of young women’s empowerment and child Education Resource Team (RRRT) before of Accountants. She is currently pursuing her the South Pacifc. Her passion to work with protection. Maraia is a young feminist that joining the Asia Pacifc Forum on Women, Post Graduate Diploma in Forensic Accounting diverse women, motivates Menka as a feminist. advocates and supports the rights of diverse Law and Development (APWLD) in Thailand & Fraud Investigation at the University of the Her keen interest lies in analysis and gender women and girls, in relation to social and and the Asian Pacifc Resource and Research South Pacifc. inclusive data in policy formulation. development justice. Maraia is a member of Centre for Women (ARROW) in Malaysia. She the Emerging Leaders Forum Alumni, Fiji returns to Fiji after 12 years, hoping to use her Young Women’s Forum, Pacifc Young Women experience and knowledge to contribute to the Leadership Alliance , the Pacifc Feminist women and human rights movement at home. Coalition on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights and a member of the UNWOMEN Pacifc Civil Society Advisory Group (CSAG).

Fiji Women’s Forum Young Women’s Offcer GIRLS Offcer Lillian GIRLS Support Offcer Coordinator Losana Mamta Chand Delana Daiana Taoba

Tuiraviravi Mamta Chand has been part of the feminist Lillian Delana has been part of the FWRM Daiana frst joined the movement as a relieving movement for the past 14 years and is team for 5 years since joining in 2012 as the coordinator for the Fiji Women’s Forum before In her role as coordinator, Losana liases with a graduate of the Fiji Women’s Rights Administrative Assistant. Since then, becoming a full staff member in her role the four co-conveners of the Fiji Women’s Movement’s (FWRM) Emerging Leader’s Forum she has grown within the movement and now as the Administrative Assistant. Daiana is Forum-FWRM, Soqosoqo Vakamrama (ELF) program. She has been working with coordinates the GIRLs program and the newly passionate about working with young women I-Taukei, National Council of Women and FWRM for the last decade as a volunteer, formed GIRLS club. Lillian studied business and girls in promoting and empowering young femLINKPACIFIC. Losana is a member of intern, research assistant and currently a full management at the University of the South leaders. In 2016, she was appointed as the the Emerging Leaders Forum Alumni. She’s time staff member under the Young Women in Pacifc (USP), and also has experience in GIRLS Support Offcer. passionate towards women’s empowerment Leadership Programme. Mamta is passionate fnance management. She is passionate about stemmed from her being part of the FWRM ELF and committed to empowering and promoting empowering girls. 4th cohort in 2009. diverse young women of all intersectionalities in leadership spaces. She love’s being a fun free ferce feminist.

22 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES Research Offcer Monica Research Offcer Artika Human Rights Training Human Rights Training Waqanisau Singh Offcer Kris Prasad Offcer Alanieta Velulu

Monica Waqanisau is a Research Offcer A new addition to the team, Artika joined Kris Prasad is the Human Rights Training Alanieta graduated from USP with a Law under FWRM’s Gender Transitional Justice FWRM in March this year. Artika is a lawyer by Offcer. He is a queer activist and also a Degree in 2011 and was previously employed (GTJ) Program. She graduated from the profession and a women’s rights and gender student of politics and Sociology as a Legal Offcer with the Fiji Commerce University of the South Pacifc in 2011 with an equality activist. Not new the movement, Commission. She joined FWRM as a undergraduate degree in Law and ever since, Artika is a graduate of FWRM’s Emerging Human rights trainer and after 3 years with has worked extensively in women-led NGO’s for Leaders Forum program and has been part organisation, she can proudly say that she is the past six years with extensive experience in of the Fiji Young Women’s Forum. She is a Feminist and human rights defender with a policy and legislative reform through research, passionate and determined to furthering social keen interest in women and children’s rights. gender legal analysis and targeted advocacy. justice. She is committed to democracy and She is a passionate human rights and rule of upholding the rule of law. law advocate and fercely self identifes as a global south Pacifc feminist.

Communications Offcer Communications Support Finance Offcer Poonam Program Support Offcer Maryann Lockington Offcer Serelisoni Moceica Prasad Shyana Ali

Maryann Lockington is a journalist, blogger, Serelisoni Moceica is a journalist and writer, Poonam Prasad graduated from Fiji National Shyana Ali is a feminist and no stranger to social media consultant, creative writer, poet beginning her career in the media industry as University in 2012 with a Bachelors of the movement as a graduate of the Emerging and advocate with over 4 years experience a reporter for Fiji Times in 2011. She studied Accounting. Currently she is pursuing Post Leaders Forum. An artist and young women’s working in the felds of communications and Sociology at the University of the South Pacifc graduate Forensic Accounting and Fraud advocate, Shyana frst joined FWRM in 2014 journalism. She was a graduate of FWRM’s but developed an interest in journalism and investigation at the University of the South as Administrative Assistant and is now the 6th Emerging Leaders Forum program and writing. Serelisoni attended Assemblies of God Pacifc. She joined FWRM in October, 2016 Program Support Offcer under the Finance now currently serves as the Deputy Coordinator Primary School and Ratu Sukuna Memorial and has an interest in learning from and Team. for the Emerging Leaders Forum Alumni and School where she developed her love for working with team members. currently a co-convener of the Fiji Young English writing. She also worked for Newswire Women’s Forum. She is also completing her and was involved in other public relations studies in Journalism and Law at the University work for local organisations.She is the only of the South Pacifc. sister to four brothers and understands about the constant struggle of being a woman living in a patriarchal society. Serelisoni is a new addition to the team and joined FWRM in March this year.

*The positions of Programme Director and Administrative Assistant are still vacant.

23 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES FWRM Welcomes New Board Members About Us the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM), a multiethnic and multicultural non-governmental organisation committed to removing discrimination against women through institutional reforms and attitudinal changes, by means of core programmes as well as innovative approaches. By means of core programmes and innovative approached, FWRM practices FWRM’s AGM 2016 and promotes feminism, democracy, good governance and human rights. We strive to empower, unite and provide The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement Annual General Meeting was held on Thursday 17 leadership opportunities for women November 2016 at the Fiji Club in Suva. in Fiji, especially for emerging young Over 20 people were in attendance including, staff, members, the management board, leaders in Fiji, indeginous and locally- partners, friends and networks. The event was offciated by Board Chair Daiana Burseova born women. The FWRM vision is for and outgoing Acting Executive Director Michelle Reddy. the women of Fiji to be free from all The main outcomes of the AGM was the election of two new board members, feminist forms of discrimination, have equal activist and former FWRM Executive Director Virisila Buadromo and Emerging Leaders access to opportunities and to live Forum Alumni member and a masters student at the University of the South Pacifc Ashlyn in a healthy environment where the Lal. They offcially assumed their roles in 2017, as Daiana Buresova and board member principles of feminism, democracy, Tamara Balenaveikau ‘s term came to an end. good governance, multiculturalism and FWRM also named a new trustee, Fijian Academic and University of the South Pacifc human rights prevail. lecturer Dr. Neelesh Gounder succeeding Professor Wadan Narsey. FWRM’s Annual Report for July 2015 to June 2016 was presented with additional presentations from Price Waterhouse Cooper auditors on the organisation’s fnancial performance. Also, as part of the agenda, the minutes of the last AGM in 2015 were Join Us approved and adopted. In 2017, FWRM’s management board now includes interim YES! I want to support the Board Chair Makareta Waqavonovono, Treasurer Shradha Sharma, Imrana Jalal, Sharyne Fiji Women’s Rights Movement Fong, Eseta Nadakuitavuki, Virisila Buadromo and Ashlyn Lal, Anna Cowley and Neomai Maravuakula. FWRM’s Trustees include Lisa Apted, Helen Tavola and Dr.Neelesh Gounder. ANNUAL FEE: Waged $10 | Organisation $30 Non-waged/student- $5 New PACCOM Mechanism Formed

Name: By Maryann Lockington

Address: Key civil society representatives from the region convened the Pacifc CSO Organisaing Mechanism dialogue at Studio 6 , Suva from 6 to 8 February. It was organised by a regional working group including Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, Ph: DIVA for Equality, Pacifc Youth Council, Women United Together Marshall Islands (WUTMI) Email: and Tongan Leiti Association who were chosen by over 30 civil society groups from the region to take this work forward to an initial meeting. Some of the important highlights of the forum include; the endorsement of the PACCOM Declaration and the establishment of the new secretariat and working group. The Mechanism’s 6-month transitional Secretariat will be hosted by the Fiji Women’s Rights Movement, with a working group including Diverse Voices and Action (DIVA) for Equality, Samoa National Youth Council, Pacifc Youth Council Samoa, Women United Together Marshall Islands (WUTMI) and Tongan Leiti Association. A new list-serve was also created to help diseminate and communicate PACCOM related work to partners and interested parties. Working Group member and Diverse Voices and Action (DIVA) for Equality Fiji Political Adviser Ms Noelene Nabulivou said, “Civil society in Pacifc small island countries and territories are as diverse as our region. When we look at the many challenges facing Pacifc people and the world, we need to be ever stronger in our collective analysis, advocacy, communication and social organising. PACCOM will assist many Pacifc Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) community led, national and regional civil society groups to work Fiji Women’s Rights Movement better with communities, each other, governments and CROP agencies. We will certainly try!” Ph: (679) 3313156 Fax: 331 3466 Website: www.fwrm.org.fj The three-day Pacifc CSO Organising Mechanism (PACCOM) dialogue was supported Mail: GPO Box 14194, Suva, Fiji Islands by European Union funded Non-State Actors Programme implemented by Pacifc Islands @FWRM1 Forum Secretaria (PIFS). @fwrm1 For the next 5 months, FWRM supported by the working group will further improve PACCOM’s structure and set-up before offcially handing the secretariat over. 24 FIJI WOMEN’S RIGHTS MOVEMENT 30 YEARS OF BALANCING THE SCALES