The Trans Affirmative Action Guild, a Queer and Trans Organization in Fiji, condemns transphobic reporting and violence against the Vakasalewalewa community, and they are urging the Government to effectively integrate laws into mainstream policies across various government sectors.
The organization is also calling on all media outlets in Fiji, the Pacific, and beyond to improve news coverage of trans people and the stories that affect them, including hate crimes, murders, and violence.
They say the recent tragic death of 19-year-old Esther, also known as Setariki Ravato, has sent shockwaves through Fiji, and his murder is believed to be motivated by transphobia, highlighting the urgent need for greater awareness, understanding, and protection for queer and trans individuals in our society.
The Trans Affirmative Action Guild says they condemn in the strongest terms the transphobic reporting and violence perpetrated against Ravato and countless others who face discrimination and harm due to their gender identity or sexual orientation.
It says the article published by Fiji Times not only misgenders Ravato but also fails to recognize the humanity and dignity of a young vakasalewalewa who tragically lost his life due to hate-fueled violence.
They add that misgendering individuals in media reporting not only disrespects their identity but also contributes to a culture of erasure and marginalization that puts vakasalewalewa individuals at risk. Co-Founder and Executive Director Ratu Eroni Ledua Dina says they have grave concerns about media reporting of this hate crime that perpetuates misinformation, stigma, and discrimination. Vakasalewalewa lives matter.
He says they are calling for urgent improvements to reporting that supports their right to respectful media representation, safety in their community, and access to justice.
Dina says Ravato’s story is a painful reminder of the pervasive discrimination and violence faced by queer and trans individuals in Fiji, and no one should ever have to fear for their safety or face violence simply for being who they are.
The Executive Director says it is incumbent upon all members of society, including the media to challenge harmful stereotypes and narratives that perpetuate discrimination and violence against the Queer and Trans community.
He also urged the Fiji Government to effectively integrate laws into mainstream policies across various government sectors.
He says they urgently call on the Fiji Police Force to conduct a comprehensive investigation into Ravato's murder, ensuring that justice is diligently pursued.
They are also calling on the media to embrace responsible and respectful reporting practices that validate the identities of queer and trans individuals, fostering a safer and more inclusive society for everyone.
Dina says the country’s Bill of Rights, enshrined in the Fiji Constitution under section 26 subsection 3, explicitly protects the rights of LGBTQI individuals, ensuring that they are entitled to the same freedoms and protections as every other citizen.
However, he says despite these legal safeguards, LGBTQI people in Fiji continue to face systemic discrimination, harassment, and violence, as evidenced by Ravato's tragic murder.
He adds it is imperative that civil society organizations across Fiji come together to condemn the transphobic reporting and violence that disproportionately targets the Vakasalewalewa community.
The organisation co-founder says the LGBTQI movement cannot fight against discrimination and violence alone as it requires support and solidarity from all sectors of society to effect meaningful change.
Dina says by standing together in solidarity, civil society organizations can send a powerful message that discrimination and violence against LGBTQI individuals will not be tolerated in Fiji.
He says we must hold media outlets accountable for responsible reporting practices that respect the identities and dignity of all individuals, including vakasalewalewa and gender-diverse people.
He further says as an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of queer and trans individuals in Fiji, they remain committed to fighting against discrimination, violence, and injustice in all its forms and they are ready to work with journalists, editors, and newsrooms to support them as they report about our lives respecting journalistic standards of accuracy and respect.
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