VUNIWAQA:
VALUES OF HOLI MUST BE WITH US EVERY DAY
The deep meaning behind the celebration of Holi must not be limited to this one time in the year, but must be incorporated in our values every day. Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Mereseini Vuniwaqa made the remark yesterday while celebrating Holi with members of the Women Empowerment Group in Navua.
She said a lot of issues that plagued society today would be easily resolved if the various significances of Holi was interpreted and translated to our way of life. “Uniting people from diverse cultures is a founding principle of the Fijian Government,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.
“It is a provision of the 2013 Constitution whereby we share a common identity as the people of this country,” Ms Vuniwaqa said.
“The reason the concept of unity is essential is because time and again we see that if two or more people come together with the agenda of fulfilling a common task, the task is done well. “Moreover, it is seen that when people work in groups, they develop a bond.”
She highlighted the importance of oneness during the COVID-19 crisis in terms of helping out one another.
“Whether it’s COVID-19, natural disasters, domestic violence or even inadequate means to meet one’s daily needs, when we are banded by human relations, we are never alone in our difficulties,” she said.
“As we celebrate the auspicious festival of Holi, I take this time to ask every Fijian to rebuke the spirit of evil, hatred, division and discrimination from our hearts. “In the end, only the spirit of care, love, forgiveness, kindness, compassion, peace and togetherness will do good for all and it is this spirit that Fiji needs to prosper.”