The University of Fiji, in collaboration with the Kaupule of Nukulaelae, premiered The Stolen Laevans of Tuvalu: The Peruvian Slavery Nightmare in Tuvalu earlier this week, drawing a large and emotional audience.
The film, co-produced by The University of Fiji and the Kaupule of Nukulaelae, premiered as part of the Fakaapo – Tuvalu Arts Festival.
It revisits the blackbirding of Nukulaelae in 1863, when about 80 per cent of the island’s population was taken by slave vessels to work as forced labourers in the guano mines and plantations of Peru.
The film tells not only of the tragedy experienced by the people of Nukulaelae, but also of the resilience that developed among the generations that followed.
It also links this history with the challenges facing Tuvalu today, particularly climate change, rising sea levels and the possibility of displacement of an entire small island culture.
The University of Fiji Vice-Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem said the film reflected the University’s commitment to preserving Pacific history and creating greater awareness of experiences that continue to shape Pacific communities today.
“The film was made as part of our Journalism and Media Studies Documentary course. The two lecturers teaching the course decided to take a story they had been told about the slave trade in Tuvalu, undertake further research with the help of their students, and develop it into a film for a wider audience internationally. The film had its World Premiere at Tuvalu’s first Arts Festival and will have its Fiji Premier in September before being taken to international film festivals.”
Prime Minister of Tuvalu Hon. Feleti P. Teo described the film as a powerful reminder of the injustices endured by the people of Nukulaelae.
“The film is a powerful reminder of the injustices and inequities that our people were subjected to in those darkest and unforgettable years. And, I congratulate the island of Nukulaelae and the University of Fiji for the production of the film.
“I would venture further to suggest some form of reparation or compensation should be in order. My Government stands ready and willing to support the efforts to promote the key messages delivered by the film.”
The University of Fiji’s Head of Corporate Services, Mr Seve Paeniu, said the response from those who attended the premiere demonstrated the impact the story had on Tuvaluans.
“The premiere attracted a huge audience, and many expressed shock and horror of what had occurred to the Stolen Laevans, with some visibly shaken and with tears of heartbreak.
“This powerful film resonates really well with Tuvaluans, and our Laevan ancestors will never be forgotten.”
The film is also in line with the Memorandum of Understanding partnership between The University of Fiji and the Government of Tuvalu, which promotes cultural exchanges between the University and Tuvalu, including participation in educational, cultural and community events.
Through the collaboration, The University of Fiji and the Kaupule of Nukulaelae hope the film will preserve an important chapter of Tuvalu and Pacific history, while raising awareness of the blackbirding trade, the resilience of the Nukulaelae people and wider discussions on restorative justice.
Public Relations Office
