Pacific Peoples' Partnership

Connecting Indigenous and Pacific Peoples

Featured Partner

by

PPP’s Individual donors are our Lifeblood!  Meet a long-time Lifetime Member and Featured Supporter:

Mel Moffat a PPP Lifetime Member

I have enclosed a donation to your PPP Esmonde Endowment Fund.  It feels very “right” for me to make it a substantial amount at this time when I am “able” to do so.  I am now of an age when it is much more important to not put things off.  I think it was SPPF’s involvement in the south pacific anti-nuclear concerns that brought me to SPPF and my meeting Phil [Esmonde], I was greatly saddened when he died. Although I am by no means “wealthy” I felt able to give a bit to a worthy cause at this stage in my life, and the PPP Esmonde Endowment Fund felt very right to me when it was first established and I wanted to “add a bit” to it. – – Melvin Moffat

URGENT APPEAL – Samoa Measles Outbreak December 2019

by

Let’s Send Canada’s Love & Support to Samoa

AN URGENT FUNDRAISING APPEAL For Samoa Measles Crisis

Samoa Memorial Service 2019

Updated by Pacific Peoples’ Partnership on December 30, 2019

Our hearts are breaking for Samoa, and Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP) requests your help as we try to bring some comfort to the Samoan peoples during the holiday season. We have received firsthand reports from our partner Samoa Social Welfare Fesoasoani Trust about the measles crisis in Samoa. PPP has reviewed footage and photos of young victims and their devastated and grieving families. It is an unbearable tragedy, and the Samoan peoples are in our prayers and actions as we fundraise to support the families.

Our partner Leaula Theresa VH Asiata writes: “Thank you to your organization for thinking of our small nation of the measles outbreak. It is heartbreaking to bury your loved ones especially the young children. I for one was affected by this terrible outbreak, my grandson of 14 months was the first victim of the measles. He passed away on the White Sunday for all the Children of Samoa. … Our organization is opening our doors to the families for counseling and other help towards these families.

Our organization is been volunteering for our Red Cross here in Samoa, so we do have a list of families that their children died from the measles. We are grateful to Pacific Peoples Partnership and especially to your President for this kind contribution to our beautiful Samoa. I know for a fact your President understand and know exactly what our people needs so whatever your organization provide will appreciate, but just a thought small toys for children since its the Christmas time just to uplift the spirit of xmas for these young families who there kids passed away from the measles.”

-Ma lou faaaloalo tele (Kind regards) from the Samoa Social Welfare Fesoasoani Trust (SSWFT)

In a Pacific island nation with just under 200,000 people, everyone has been touched by this medical emergency. As of December 28, 2019, the Government of Samoa reports 5,667 cases of measles, 12 in the last 24 hours, and 81 deaths (mostly children). 95% of the populations has been vaccinated during this state of emergency.

PPP’s President Muavae Va’a, is Samoan and will be travelling to be with Samoan families and provide support. He will be leaving Canada for Samoa on December 31 and will be there until January 13th, 2020. We are urgently collecting donations for the affected families and in support of our partner SSWFT, who is also responding.

To contribute, please make a secure on line donation to #2 Pacific Resilience Fund before December 31, 2019 at: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/pacific-peoples-partnership-association/

To learn more about the Pacific Resilience Fund visit here: https://archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org/pacific-resilience-fund/

For more news:

PPP President Mua Va’a speaks about the crisis and our campaign on CBC (24:45 in broadcast): https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-43-north-by-northwest/clip/73379-sunday-december-15

“Why my baby?” How measles robbed Samoa of its young: https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/19/world/asia/samoa-measles.html

Tiny Samoa has had nearly 5,000 measles cases. Here’s how it got so bad. https://www.vox.com/2019/12/18/21025920/measles-outbreak-2019-samoa

_______________________________________________________________________

Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP) is Canada’s sole charity and NGO devoted to the peoples of the South Pacific.  Our President Muavae (Mua) Va’a is Samoan and is planning to head home December 31 to Jan 13, 2020 to provide help and assistance.  PPP is collecting funds to help out the affected families.  Mua will be delivering these Canadian donations directly to Samoan families in need.  We can offer tax deductible receipts through our Pacific Resilience Fund, Donate to campaign #2 HERE

Please help us show that Canadians care by supporting the Samoan peoples as they fight this horrific illness, grieve their unspeakable losses and begin to recover.

Media / Information:

Learn about the Pacific Resilience Funds

CBC The Current https://www.cbc.ca/player/play/1654834243876

https://www.ctvnews.ca/health/no-reprieve-as-samoa-measles-death-toll-hits-70-1.4721211

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-measles-samoa/decorated-with-butterflies-infant-sized-coffins-sent-to-measles-ravaged-samoa-idUSKBN1YD01J

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-09/anatomy-of-an-epidemic:-how-measles-took-hold-of-samoa/11773018

https://www.sciencealert.com/the-measles-epidemic-in-samoa-is-so-bad-unvaccinated-homes-are-being-marked-with-red

https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2019/12/09/health-travel-advisories-issued-amid-measles-outbreak-samoa-american-samoa/

https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/samoa#health

Pasifik Currents – Winter 2019

by

One Wave Gathering 2019 Delegation spends time with Chris Paul on Studio Tour

Talofa Lava PPP Friends and Members, 

Please remember Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP) with your donation today! You can do so securely HERE.  Every dollar donated makes a huge difference to PPP. We leverage your donation to secure resources critical to our sustainability and solidarity building programs like the recent One Wave Gathering in Victoria, and knowledge sharing programs like RedTide 2020: International Indigenous Climate Action Summit. Plus this supports our work with HELP Resources, to transform the informal economy in Papua New Guinea.

Enclosed in this edition of Pasifik Currents you will find a treasure trove of impact stories made possible with your support. We hope you enjoy these articles that make tribute to our President Emeritus Dr. Boutilier; acknowledge our many One Wave Gathering collaborators; introduce new climate program partnerships such as with CAYAC; showcase the power of Indigenous solidarity with Maunaukea; and shed light on the escalating human rights crisis faced by our friends and partners in West Papua.   It is also a time of commemoration, join us if you can for our 44th Annual General Meeting on December 10th as we mark International Human Rights Day.

As the only Canadian organization dedicated to the South Pacific, we are honoured to be your partner in ensuring Indigenous and South Pacific peoples are leading the way to a resilient future. Exiting times are coming as we mark our 45th Anniversary with a series of new programs and initiatives. We thank you for all your support, as we have so much more to accomplish together!

Yours in Pacific solidarity,

Mua Va’a, President

April Ingham, Executive Director

Pacific Peoples’ Partnership Briefs:

by

Pacific Peoples’ Partnership Annual General Meeting on December 10th, 2019.  Join us on International Human Rights Day for our AGM on Tuesday December 10th from 5:30 – 8:30 pm.  Business will take place from 5:30 – 6:30 pm.  Be sure to make your annual donation or membership contribution in advance of the meeting to ensure you are qualified to vote… plus we need and welcome your support always!  Renew for a minimum of $15 here.     For more details RSVP your Ticket HERE

West Papua Task Force Created: PPP and friends have initiated a task force to respond to escalating violence and human rights violations in the region. If you are interested to get involved and learn more, check out our recent Call for Action

Paying Respects to Dr. Boutilier on Retirement

by

April PPP ED, Jim our President Emeritus, and MP Randall Garrison (Former PPP ED) at Jim’s Retirement Celebration

By Arthur Holbrook

We take pride in honouring Dr. James Boutilier for his many career accomplishments and contributions to Pacific Peoples’ Partnership on the occasion of his retirement from his duties as Special Advisor (Policy) at Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC), the Canadian Navy formation on the West Coast. He joined MARPAC in 1996 and has traveled widely on behalf of the Navy, primarily in Asia.

Jim was instrumental in the establishment of the South Pacific Peoples’ Foundation (SPPF), the forerunner of the Pacific Peoples’ Partnership, in 1975 as SPPF protested the growing threat of nuclear weapons testing in the South Pacific. He served as the president of SPPF for many years during which his knowledge of the South Pacific helped the organization to become Canada’s only non-profit organization devoted to placing Indigenous community knowledge and leadership at the centre of development efforts.

His knowledge of the South Pacific is unparalleled. He studied at Dalhousie University (B.A.), McMaster University (M.A.) and received his PhD from the University of London (UK) in 1969. He taught at the University of the South Pacific in Suva, Fiji, from 1969 to 1971 before taking up an appointment at Royal Roads Military College (RRMC) in Victoria, British Columbia. Here he established the military and strategic studies program and taught courses on naval history, contemporary Asia, the history of the Pacific, and strategic issues. He served on the staff of RRMC for twenty-four years and was Chairman of the History Department and Dean of Arts until his retirement in 1995.

He was also an adjunct professor of Pacific Studies at the University of Victoria during his time at RRMC and, as the Canadian Forces consolidated their cadet officer training program and moved operations to the Royal Military College in Kingston, Ontario, he was influential in the establishment of Royal Roads University.

Jim is recognized internationally as an expert on Indo-Pacific defence and security. He has written extensively on maritime and security concerns. He has lectured nationally and internationally on political, economic, and security developments in the Indo-Pacific region. Jim has worked with multiple Defence Ministers and Chiefs of Defence Staff at global engagements and has been a fixture at the NATO Defense College in Rome, the Canadian Forces College, and the Conference of Defence Associations.

At his recent retirement dinner, Jim’s peers spoke about his exemplary work as an educator, a statesman and informal Canadian ambassador. His legacy is extraordinary. We know he will be sorely missed by his associates in the Canadian military and we can only hope that he will grace Pacific Peoples’ Partnership with his wisdom, perceptions and good humour in the years to come.

AND a gracious addendum

Dear PACIFIC PEOPLES’ PARTNERSHIP ASSOCIATION,

We are pleased to inform you that on November 19, 2019 11:14:18 AM, one of your supporters made a one-time donation of $1,056.20 to your charity in support of the following fund: 1. Give Where We Need It Most – With this support we can leverage other funding!. Donor’s message to charity: Dear April, Please accept this donation in the name of Dr. Jim Boutilier. The funds came from the balance remaining from his retirement dinner. It comes with every good wish. Sincerely, David Collins.

Post Note: PPP’s upcoming AGM will feature a short presentation by our President Emeritus Dr. Boutilier, who will present on China’s Expansion into the South Pacific.

Story Prepared By Arthur Holbrook, an author, filmmaker and PPP Board Member based in Victoria, BC.

PPP Puts out a Canadian Call for Action on Violence in West Papua

by

Papuan protesters laying prone under guard.

Pacific Peoples’ Partnership Media Release – Victoria, BC, October 7, 2019.

As Indonesian state violence mounts against protesters in West Papua, concerned Canadians are calling for pressure on the Indonesian government to halt repression and take steps against racism in the Pacific island territory.

West Papua was slated for independence until Indonesia took over in the 1960s and annexed it. Independence protests continue in this island, home to some of the world’s largest remaining rain forests and richest biological and cultural diversity.

In recent months, Indonesia’s treatment of West Papuans has deteriorated to the worst it has been in the last two decades, sparked by racist attacks on Papuans who have been called “monkeys”. In late September, at least 27 Papuans were killed by Indonesian government forces in response to West Papuans calling for their rights and at least 70 people have been injured. The Indonesian government has deployed over 1,000 security personnel to West Papua, cut internet access and banned journalists and human rights organizations from entering the area. Scores of peaceful protesters have been arrested. More than 22 are facing prosecution for Makar (treason) for exercising their rights to freedom of expression, association and assembly.  They are considered ‘prisoners of conscience’ by Amnesty International.

“International pressure needs to be applied against Indonesia now to safeguard the lives and rights of West Papuans,” said April Ingham, Executive Director of Pacific Peoples’ Partnership, a Victoria-based advocacy organization with more than 40 years of experience working for human rights and the environment in Canada and the South Pacific. “Canada, which claims a strong tradition as an advocate of human rights, should take a stand in support of West Papuans and pressure the Indonesian government to allow for freedom of expression, association and assembly and the right of self-determination for West Papuan peoples.”

Recommendations:

  • Pressure the Indonesian government to allow for freedom of expression, association and assembly and the right to self-determination for West Papuans;
  • Pressure the Indonesian government to immediately release the 22 prisoners’ of conscience and drop the Makar charges;
  • Pressure the Indonesian government to allow for access to West Papua for journalists and human rights organizations, and
  • Pressure the Indonesian government to investigate military and police engaging in human rights abuses.

For more information Contact:

Pacific Peoples’ Partnership

#407 620 View St., Victoria BC, V8W 1J6, Canada / 250-381-4131 director@archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org  archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org

Post Note: PPP has sent letters to MP Freeland and other Canadian Government leaders concerning the escalating violence in West Papua urging our intervention.

###

West Papua Backgrounder

Indonesia maintains control over West Papua, using military might to silence demands for self-determination and denying the Indigenous people their fundamental human rights. Since its invasion in 1963, an estimated 100,000 Papuans (about 15% of the population) have been killed by Indonesian armed forces and militias.

In 2019, West Papua burst back into the headlines after Indonesians in Surabaya attacked and called Papuan students “monkeys”. A wave of anti-racist protest erupted and revived independence sentiments throughout West Papua. The Indonesian army has escalated its repressive measures in response. Racism, rights, resources and rainforests intersect in this complex conflict.

Where is it? West Papua, located to the north of Australia, is blanketed with tropical rainforests. These are rich in biodiversity and represent the largest remaining untouched rainforests in Asia. But more than three quarters of the 40 million hectares of forest have been designated for logging or mining. Resource revenues support continued military oppression.

A History of Betrayal

1945- The Dutch East Indies, excluding Papua, becomes the Republic of Indonesia. 1961– Papuans celebrate their “Independence Day” by raising the Morning Star flag. 1963– Indonesian troops take over Papua. 1969– Indonesia holds a “popular consultation” over Papua’s future. 1,000 representatives are forced to vote openly in front of armed soldiers, and told they would be shot unless the vote supported integration with Indonesia. 2001– An autonomy deal grants Papua increased control of its resources and the freedom to express its cultural identity. 2003– The Indonesian army begins a campaign of terror in the highlands, burning villages and torturing detainees. Indonesia bans all foreign journalists in Papua. 2005– After the Government of Indonesia fails to implement the autonomy agreement, the People’s Assembly of Papua formally returns it to Jakarta demanding a real solution be negotiated. 2014– At a meeting in Vanuatu, Papuan independence groups unite to form the United Liberation Movement of West Papua and start to gain support from Pacific Island states. 2019– Racial tensions flare into the open and the largest pro-independence protests to date are met with force and arrests of activists.

50 Years of Racism

The Indigenous peoples of West Papua are Melanesians, related to the people of Papua New Guinea and many Pacific island countries. Their independence claims have often rested on being a Pacific, not an Indonesian, people. Papuans have been victims of racism and other forms of discrimination for more than half a century, and dismissed as “Stone Age” peoples who are “ignorant” and need to be “civilized.” Racism is the daily lived reality for many Papuans. In 2019, Papuan students continue their demand for racism to end.

Human Rights Abuses and Injustice

  • The Indonesian government has relocated thousands of Indonesians to Papua through the “transmigration” program, initially supported by the World Bank and Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). Over 40% of Papua’s two million people are settlers from Indonesia. West Papua’s Indigenous cultures and 274 distinct languages are at risk.
  • Indonesian security forces regularly use torture, extra-judicial killings and forced detention to block Papuans from protecting their lands and expressing their right to self-determination.
  • Human rights defenders and community leaders are routinely harassed, and intimidated or murdered.
  • Despite ample evidence of atrocities, only once has a military official been charged for human rights violations committed against Papuan people.
  • Papuan women are often sexually assaulted by the military and are denied access to health services, resulting in Papua having the highest HIV rates in Indonesia.
  • The territory is mostly closed to outsiders, and in 2019 the government shut down the Internet. The UN Commissioner for Human Rights is the most recent to express concern.

Environmental Destruction

West Papua is home to some of the largest remaining rainforest in Southeast Asia. It is rich in natural resources including natural gas, oil and minerals. The military is directly involved, engaging in illegal logging and acting as security for mining companies. Papua is home to the highest concentration of illegal logging operations in Asia.

Widespread logging and mining have had a serious impact on the livelihood and traditions of the Papuan people who rely on the land for survival. Traditional land is continually being cleared, creating conflict among Indigenous people, foreign companies and Indonesian security forces. Forest is being cleared to make way for mono-crop agriculture in an effort to gain environmental certification, without regard to Indigenous peoples or the negative effect on old-growth forests.

Take Action

Write to Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to ask her to put pressure on the Indonesian government to stop the killings, torture and arrests, and support freedom of choice in West Papua. 125 Sussex Drive (no stamp necessary), Ottawa ON, K1A 0A6, Chrystia.Freeland@parl.gc.ca

Join a Canadian based working committee to learn more about this ongoing human rights crisis and get involved in advocacy and solutions based responses.  Email:info@archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org

Donate to, or get involved with the Pacific Peoples’ Partnership, the main Canadian organization working on Papuan Indigenous rights. https://archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org

 About Pacific Peoples’ Partnership

For over forty four years, Pacific Peoples’ Partnership has supported the aspirations of South Pacific Islanders and Indigenous peoples for peace, environmental sustainability, social justice and community development.

Based on Lekwungen territories in Victoria BC, Canada, we are Canada’s only non-profit organization and registered charity focused specifically on the island nations of the South Pacific.

archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org

 

PPP Summer 2019 Updates

by

April Ingham, PPP’s Executive Director, in front of a Coast Salish Longhouse. Photo by Carla Funk

Greetings Friends,

Our Canadian Summer has been a busy one!  Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP) was pleased to bring on three talented young interns Jaegar, Miranda and Zachary and are pleased to have also brought Steven Davies onto the Team to coordinate this years One Wave Gathering.

Included in this edition of Pasifik Currents are highlights of some of our recent activities including the amazing Longhouse Dialogues that took place from May 31 – June 5, as outlined in my blog.  We are also thrilled to see the terrific project profile of our partner HELP Resources in a special report by the Commonwealth Foundation that highlights Stronger Civic Voices across the Commonwealth  (Page 11) 

Our Team working alongside ECO Canada has also designed a new Indigenous youth focussed climate action curriculum called RedTide: Climate Connect slated for this Fall.  And we are thrilled that Kalilah Rampenen, the Youth Chair for RedTide 2020: International Indigenous Climate Action and Youth Conference, has secured permission from her hereditary Chief Maquinna to host RedTide from June 22-25, 2020 in their Territories near Tofino, so mark your calendar and watch our website for an amazing series of events to come!

Thanks to the enhanced Team capacity, PPP has been delighted to develop our archives further and capture interviews with many of the key influencers since our inception.  We are turning 45 next year and are embarking on a process of reflection and renewal. Our Board of Directors are preparing for our next strategic planning process “Beyond 45” for the Fall of 2019, and it is our hope to reinvigorate our relationships throughout the South Pacific, to engage in deep listening and reconnecting to ensure our work is properly informed by those we serve in an efficient and effective way.  In addition, we continue to work with established partners here in Canada to produce award-winning programming that connects diverse communities north-south to build understanding and ultimately solidarity for peace, dignity, equity and a sustainable future for all.

This year, more than ever we need your continued support and engagement!  To that end we are inviting you to take a short survey to indicate your preference for communication platforms and you might even win a prize!  You can take that quick survey here. We cannot do this work without your support, please consider donating and/or volunteering to support this year’s One Wave Gathering.

Very best wishes,

April Ingham

Executive Director

  

One Wave Update

by

‘uy’ skweyul folks*,

I’m excited to be joining the PPP team and coordinating the One Wave Gathering this year and would like to share some of our recent progress so that you can mark your calendars. Also stay tuned for updates via our website and Facebook page.

Key Events include:

MediaNet Flux Gallery Exhibition, Screenings & Installation (821 Fort Street)

September 12 – 25, 2019 (Opening on September 12th @ 7pm features several special guests)

ONE WAVE GATHERING Our Signature Public Performance Event at Centennial Square (City Hall, Victoria, BC) September 14th, 2019 from noon to 6pm

Surfer’s Paradise: Northwest Coast Surfboard Art Show & Artist Talk (Alcheringa Gallery 621 Fort Street) September 19th, 2019

We are pleased to announce that we have confirmed a feature film for our exhibition at the Flux Gallery (We, the Voyagers Part 2: Our Moana (http://vaka.org/) as well as a short film by Shíshálh Nation artist Margaret August. We are still receiving submissions if you are an Indigenous artist with digital work related to themes of Indigenous resurgence amongst Pacific Nations please send submissions to me at: steven@archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org

There are a number of ways to get involved!

Be an NGO or Artist Vendor: A limited amount of tables are offered at no charge to local NGOs and Indigenous Artists.  Sign up here.

Volunteer: In addition to opportunities to participate as an NGO, Vendor, or Artist during our main event in Centennial Square, we are actively seeking volunteers for all of our events. Please help us spread the word about our Gathering and our interest in recruiting volunteers:  Fill out our Volunteer Form before September 4, 2019 if you are interested in being a part of the 12th annual One Wave Gathering and learning about how to be an ally and work with local Indigenous Peoples. 

For more information you can check out our website or Facebook, and contact our Program Coordinator for more information: steven@archive.pacificpeoplespartnership.org 

*Greetings in Hul’q’umi’num’ Language

The Longhouse Dialogues: Raising a West Coast Village in Honour of Women

by

By April Ingham, Executive Director, Pacific Peoples’ Partnership

Women Honouring Canoe Ceremony.

In 2017 Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP) produced a historic and award-winning program, our 10th One Wave Gathering, with the permission and guidance of Coast Salish and South Pacific Elders and Leaders.  Central to this community building event was the raising of four temporary Longhouses, designed to house community-based programming.  They were raised upon the lawn of the BC Legislature, which Elders told us was once a village site for Lekwungen peoples.  

This temporary Longhouse village was the inspired vision of artist Hjalmer Wenstob who conceived of these Longhouses and created them in his Nation’s Nuu-chah-nulth style.  Hjalmer is an exceptionally gifted artist that believes strongly in creating meaningful opportunities for youth engagement, so he mentored four young artists who designed and helped paint each of the Longhouse fronts to represent their individual Nations.   These talented young artists were Sarah Jim (Coast Salish), A.J. Boersen (Nuu-chah-nulth), Juliana Speier (Kwak’waka’wakw), Jazzlyn Markowsky (Māori) and a stunning dance curtain, later gifted to Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, was created by James Goldsmith-Brown (Esquimalt Nation). The Longhouses were then programmed with drumming, storytelling, sharing of culture, song and games by members of the respective Nations on September 14, 2017.  The project was life changing for many and its legacy continues to live on in the spirit of all who participated and attended.  

In 2018, our friends at the British Columbia Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC) reached out to PPP and other organizations, to explore possible side event programming opportunities that could align with the Women Deliver Conference to be hosted in Vancouver June 3-6, 2019. This major international event would bring 7000+ International Women leaders together, and to complement this program, free accessible side-events would provide spaces for the local communities, guests and all interested to gather and explore topical and localized issues of matter to women.  BCCIC knew of PPP’s role in helping to realize the Longhouse project and encouraged us to consider raising them as a village once again, but this time as a location for dialogue and exchange near the conference site in downtown Vancouver.

People gather in front of the Longhouse to listen and learn.

Time was short, and PPP was a bit too stretched to really consider the additional project.  But BCCIC encouraged and offered support. We were intrigued but knew that we could only proceed if the right conditions were in place.  This meant the artist Hjalmer Wenstob would need to agree to participate as he maintained stewardship of the Longhouses, further it was essential that the installation and programming for the four Longhouses would have the permission and support of the three host nations Squamish Nation, Musqueam Nation and Tsleil-Waututh Nation respectively.  If all these conditions were in place, then we would need the permission of the City of Vancouver and Parks Board, support from Women Deliver Mobilization Canada. After all that we would need to find funding, figure out the complex logistics, find programming partners, plus round out and build the Team capacity to make it all happen.

It was a daunting process, with numerous variables that could send the project off the rails.  But the idea persisted as we knew it would offer a unique space to uplift gender equality and Indigenous issues.  Once we had Hjalmer’s agreement and the support of his family, we proceeded to engage with the three host nations to secure their permission, guidance and support.  We were fortunate to have a champion in Squamish Nation Council Member Deborah Baker. Deborah knew about our work at PPP and helped us to navigate the protocol and ultimately earn the support of Squamish, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.  Once we had this critical support and permission in place everything else began to flow…  

The City of Vancouver and Parks Board approved our extraordinary request to raise the Longhouses for just over a week in Harbour Green Park, this was a 5-minute walk down the seawall from the Vancouver Conference Centre.  Women Deliver Mobilization Canada, which helped to nurture and support side events, stepped forward with ongoing encouragement, connections and a financial contribution; LUSH Handmade Cosmetics supported the program with a substantial donation and volunteer support.  BCCIC brought the local knowledge and coordinating Team necessary for organizing the programs, logistics, etc. PPP was the lead liaison with the artist and three host Nations, plus we safeguarded the integrity of the program to ensure it was aligned and remained respectful to the intentions of those that helped birth the original project.  

Lead Artist Hjalmer (far right) with his brother Timmy and Federal International Development Minister Monsef dance as Orcas.

And so, it happened, on May 30, 2019 that our Squamish Nation friend and Cultural Coordinator Sheryl Rivers blessed the grounds at Harbour Green Park, and then Hjalmer, his family and our crew – working together raised four Longhouses in Honour of Women.  The scene was one of true magic to behold. This was the first time that all four Longhouses had stood together since 2017. They sat regally amongst the trees in this beautiful seaside park. Nestled into the green space, they stood more prominent than the cityscape hidden behind.  The Longhouses faced the water side by side. It was a powerful image to behold. Sheryl told us that this was what it would have been like in traditional times and that it made her heart swell.

The Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish Longhouses were offered at no cost in support of local NGOs and community groups as bookable spaces to hold community programming, workshops and dialogue sessions.  We even provided a green technology suite for sound and film projection. Many outstanding programs took place in both Longhouses with crowds big and small. The topics were diverse and included: Combatting Sexualization & Hypermasculinization (YWCA), From Surviving to Thriving: Social Ingredients of Health (Check your Head), Inter-Generational Dialogue: What Activism Could Look Like (Canadian Council of Young Feminists) and many more.   

The Kwak’waka’wakw Longhouse provided hospitality and organizing space, and the South Pacific (Māori Marae) Longhouse was offered as sacred space for contemplation, informal gathering and cultural exchange.  Outside the Longhouses stood an outdoor stage where ongoing presentations, including several important ceremonies, music and speeches, took place. Everything was designed to be as low impact and zero waste as possible and was powered by solar and green energy technology. A Team of committed Volunteers supported the programming and hosting of the Longhouses each day.  And each night the Longhouses were watched by Moose Hide Campaign volunteers, complemented by a security detail.

The opening ceremony was performed just after noon on May 31, 2019.  This was officiated by Sheryl Rivers, with welcoming speeches from Squamish Council Member Deborah Baker and special guest and witness Florence Dick of Songhees Nation. Florence’s Nation’s support and that of the Lekwungen speaking peoples was critical to the Longhouse project’s very creation in 2017. I acknowledged this important historical connection and shared words from PPP about the creation of the Longhouses and those that helped to birth them.  Many other special moments and ceremonies happened throughout the time of the installation which carried through to June 5th.  A highlight for me was the Women Honouring Canoe Ceremony which was brought to us by the Iisaak Olam Foundation.  

This special ceremony took place on June 3rd, a few hours after the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women’s report was released by the Government of Canada.  Beginning at the steps of the Women Deliver – Vancouver Conference Centre site, Iisaak Olam Foundation representative Eli Enns spoke about the report and his organization’s campaigns, he spoke of the connections between the desecration of land, the man-camps brought in to do so, and resulting violence against women.  

The young activist, Ta’Kaiya Blaney, being held up in the canoe.

A dug-out cedar canoe carved by Master Tla-o-qui-aht Canoe Maker Joe Martin was then raised by men representing the Moose Hide Campaign.  Carried within this canoe was young climate activist Ta’Kaiya Blaney from the Tla’Amin Nation.  Squamish women and Council members led the procession with drumming and song. They were accompanied by Culture Saves Lives and many other solidarity friends.  Approximately 200 people joined the procession and walked together in solidarity to honour the missing and murdered in solemn and thoughtful procession along the seawall to the Longhouses.  

Upon arrival at the Longhouses Ta’Kaiya was lifted towards the sky by the men who had carried her all along the pathway.  She then shared powerful words of tribute to her own recently passed mother and to all the missing and murdered, her words left us in deep contemplation.  And then she uplifted us all with a song of tribute and our collective tears flowed. Following reflections and speeches about the injustices and need for real action, Squamish Council Member KWITELUT/KWELAW’IKW, Carla George acknowledged Martina Pierre from the Lil’ wat Nation for her gifting of the “Women Warrior Song” a song in honour of the missing women, which we then sang and drummed together.  

It was intimate moments like this that made this community building experience so special.  It was the conversations on the side, the talking circles, workshops, dance and sharing that took place over the six days, that the Longhouses were raised and programmed by and for community.

Participants gather to discuss the transformative power of Indigenous art.

Prior to closing ceremony, PPP had the opportunity to facilitate a session called the Transformational Power of Art.  Fitting that this would focus on the Longhouse project itself.  Hjalmer and his brother Timmy shared a Nuu-chah-nulth dance and mask to ground the participants in their rich cultural traditions.  Then Hjalmer shared the creation story of the project along with the impacts it has had on him, his family and others. Also presenting was A.J. Boersen, the young artist who created the design on the front of the Nuu-chah-nulth house.  He was accompanied by his proud Foster Father Rheal and A.J. shared how this project had changed his life in so many good ways, he added “the drive behind my art is that each of us has an “inner warrior” – no matter who you are the fight is worth it.”  A.J. just graduated from High School in Victoria.  His Longhouse façade was installed in his school for a week prior to graduation and AJ was his class valedictorian.  He is now off to college with a promising future as a professional artist.  

PPP is incredibly honoured to be part of programs like this that truly transform our communities and enrich our relationships with understanding and compassion for one another.   We are especially grateful to BCCIC and their entire team of staff, contractors and volunteers; to Women Deliver and our friends at CanWaCH who coordinated the Mobilization Canada program; the Vancouver Foundation; the City of Vancouver and Vancouver Parks Board (who were amazing – see we didn’t kill the grass!); to LUSH Handmade Cosmetics; to our key partners: Moose Hide Campaign (and their extraordinary volunteers), the Iisaak Olam Foundation, Culture Saves Lives… and so many more.  

Participants performing a Women Warrior song.

Most importantly we thank artist Hjalmer Wenstob and his entire family and group of supporters that made the Longhouse Dialogues and installation possible.  And to all who contributed to their creation. Our hands are raised in respect to Sheryl Rivers who coordinated the cultural programming and officially spoke about the missing and murdered, and to Joleen Timko that shouldered much of the coordination detail. It truly takes a team to make projects like this succeed and we are indebted to all that contributed. 

PPP offers our deepest respect and acknowledgement to the Squamish, Musqueam and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.  Without your permission, guidance and support we would not have proceeded. We are honoured to have had your trust and support that ensured a proper foundation for the Longhouse Dialogues to honour women.

To learn more visit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/pacificpeoples/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2431127203593015 

You can help support work like this by donating today!

How PPP helped in Timor-Leste

by

Some current and former LH staff at the birthday celebration.

By David Webster

DILI, Timor-Leste — Twenty years ago, Timor-Leste (East Timor) made front pages and topped newscasts across Canada. The Indonesian army, which had invaded East Timor in 1975 at the cost of more than 100,000 deaths, had once again launched a wave of violence against the Timorese people. 

 The world spoke up then, halting massacres by pro-Indonesian forces and creating an interim United Nations administration that oversaw the restoration of Timorese independence in 2002. 

 PPP was there. Activists in the trans-Pacific human rights network joined the International Federation for East Timor (IFET) observer project, charged with monitoring the UN-sponsored referendum on East Timor. One of its coordinators was Randall Garrison, previously PPP’s executive director. The observers’ stories from the field became a special issue of Tok Blong Pasifik, still available on the PPP website. 

 Stories tell of Timorese determination to vote, of heroic journeys for days to mountain polling booths, of the brutality that started even before the vote. A staggering 98.5% of the people trooped out to vote. 

 “It was no surprise when it was announced that more than 78% had voted in favour of independence,” Randall Garrison wrote. “And it was no surprise that the wave of violence that had begun in rural areas now engulfed Dili as well. However, this was not random violence. UN local staff were attacked and the UNAMET headquarters was besieged. Community leaders were targeted, including priests and nuns. Militia members went house to house setting fires until more than 80% of the buildings in East Timor had been destroyed.”

Global protest eroded Western leaders’ will to support Indonesia, and Indonesia accepted an international peacekeeping force. The shift seemed sudden, but it built on years of solidarity activism.

 PPP was a part of that global solidarity. Through the Nuclear-Free and Independent Pacific Network, it supported freedom struggles in Indonesian-ruled Timor-Leste and West Papua. It worked closely with the East Timor Alert Network, formed on Vancouver Island in 1986. By 1999, it was putting significant support into the IFET observer project. 

1999 IFET Observers

The IFET observer project completed its work, but it did not close down entirely. The model of Timorese and international supporters working together inspired the creation of La’o Hamutuk, as IFET and LH activists Charlie Scheiner and Pamela Sexton note in a paper presented at the 2019 Timor-Leste Studies Association. La’o Hamutuk (which means “walking together”) celebrated its 19th birthday in July 2019 at its small but bustling office. LH has become one of the most respected and important voices in Timorese development debates, providing carefully-researched and spot-on analysis of everything from oil dependency to gender issues to maritime issues. 

 Activism often flows into unexpected channels. PPP’s work in Timor-Leste was part of a success story in which a small country won its freedom against very long odds, becoming the most successful democracy in Southeast Asia. That story continues in civil society in Timor-Leste today. 

Dr. David Webster (Ph.D. British Columbia 2005) is an Associate Professor at Bishop University, he teaches international and Asian history topics with a focus on the 20th century. His book Fire and the Full Moon: Canada and Indonesia in a Decolonizing World (UBC Press, 2009) examines Canada-Indonesia relations from 1945 to 1999 at both government and civil society levels. Previously he was collection editor of East Timor” Testimony (Between the Lines, 2004). His research, funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, concentrates on trans-Pacific interactions between Canada and Asia, and on the diplomacy of independence movements in Asia. David is a long time donor and friend to PPP.

Connect With Us

Pacific Peoples' Partnership
#407 620 View St., Victoria BC
Canada V8W 1J6

We want to hear from you!

Contact Information

Join Us On Social Media

About Us

For 45 years, Pacific Peoples’ Partnership has supported the aspirations of South Pacific Islanders and Indigenous peoples for peace, environmental sustainability, social justice and community development.

Read More

 

Pasifik Currents: Latest Posts