Celebrations across the country have taken place to mark the first of the nine Pacific Language Weeks starting with Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta (Rotuman Language Week). This year’s theme is Tutur häk ne måür lelei – the four pillars of life and well-being (spiritual, physical, psychological, and social).
In Porirua the Mayor and members of the Wellington Porirua Rotuman community attended a special flag raising ceremony to acknowledge the week long festivities.
Porirua Mayor Anita Baker says the community embrace learning from, and celebrating the diversity of, languages and cultures that thrive in their community. “Pacific people make up 26.6 per cent of Porirua’s population, which makes it one of the most culturally diverse regions in New Zealand.”
Mayor Baker adds, “we are greatly enriched in Porirua by our diversity, and it’s important everyone feels welcome and valued here. We think these weeks are an important way to achieve this”.
Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta (Rotuman Language Week) draws to a close tomorrow. Samoa language week kicks off 30 May.
Image credit: Porirua City Council/Facebook