Next night at the Muri Beach Club Hotel, panel members spoke on the topic of “Human Rights or Tika’anga Tangata – Unlocking our Potential.” The discussions focused on the changing relation between Anuanua rights in the Cook Islands and Tika’anga Tangata. MELINA ETCHES/24041525
The empowering “Kai Vananga – Hard Talks” panel discussions, exploring empowerment for the Anuanua (LGBTQ+) community, were held yesterday at the Muri Beach Club Hotel in celebration of the Anuanua festival week.
In the first discussion, panelists took a deeper look at the vibrant places created by the group itself, such as grassroots initiatives and support groups, which promote independence and community building.
Issues faced by the Anuanua area, including social shame, discrimination, legal obstacles, and social norms were also acknowledged. By openly examining these challenges, the panel sought to gain a deeper understanding of the path to independence within the particular context of the Cook Islands.
In the end, the discourse aims to create bridges between the Anuanua neighborhood and the wider Cook Islands community, enabling everyone to have a more egalitarian and inspired future.
Dr. Debi Futter-Puati was the moderator for this session, and the panelists were Dean Kapi–Tangata, Jean Nootai, Luther Berg, and Princess Raukete.
The second discussion was titled “Unlocking our Potential: Human Rights or Tika’anga Tangata”. The debate focused on the evolving relationship between Anuanua rights in the Cook Islands and Tika’anga Tangata.
Lawyer Valery Wichman, the deputy assistant of Te Tiare Association, was the facilitator for this discourse. The panelists were: Phylesha Brown-Acton, a trans and community activist who has served LGBTQI and Pasifika communities for over 25 years, in Aotearoa, New Zealand, Lady Tuaine Marsters – patron and advocate for the Anuanua community, Karla Eggelton – Cook Islands Tourism CEO and Pride Cook Islands president, and Fletcher Melvin, chairman of the Cook Islands Investment Corporation (CIIC).
Panelists compared the viewpoints of Anuanua individuals, learning how to defend their rights while respecting the Akono’anga Mori and Peu Mori.
Additionally, they discussed acknowledging the value of cultural traditions as well as human rights. Additionally, they identified strategies for promoting inclusivity, respect for diversity, and the preservation of the Cook Islands Way, and what this meant for the Anuanua (LGBTQ+) community.
Through their discourse, the board hopes to chart a path toward a potential where all Cook Islanders, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, may fulfill their potential in a society that values diversification for a stronger state.
The next panel’s topic was “Health: Where to Next?” examining the health environment for the Anuanua area in the Cook Islands.
Panelists examined the particular health disparities and issues they encounter, including barriers to receiving culturally appropriate and affirming care services.
Problems like stigma, discrimination, and lack of awareness among companies regarding the special requirements of Anuanua individuals were addressed. As well as preventative measures for health risks like HIV/AIDS, exploring the effectiveness of existing programs and the position of education, outreach, and asset exposure in promoting physical health and well-being within the community. The availability of medical companies for transgender individuals, exploring strategies for improving access, equality, and creating safe areas within the structure were also discussed.
Additionally, the panelists discussed the gaps in care services and possible solutions through advocacy efforts to increase access to crucial medical interventions.
Dr. Sam Manuela was the facilitator for this conversation, and the panelists were Valery Wichman, Dr. Patrick Thomsen, Talia Temaru, and Dr. Evangeline Wong.
Today, the free Anuanua Film Day will start at noon at TJ’s studio in town (near Tuki’s) showcasing five movies – at 12 noon – Mysterious Way, 1.45 pm – Island Calling, 3.15 pm – Little Pictures, 4.15 pm – Next Goal Wins, and 6.15 pm – Blessings for Bobby. For more information, visit the Pride Cook Islands Facebook site.
