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'A priest warned me that we must keep a careful and guarded watch over fellow Indo-Fijians because they are like weeds. They tend to push to grab and take over the land and the nation. (Era dau sugusugu vanua). I really appreciated the meaning of the words 'sugusugu vanua' because this is what we, the indigenous people (i.e. taukei) have proven and believe is the design of the foreigners (vulagi)'.

Adi Asenaca Caucau#1

FijiColonialismEthnicityFearIdentityLandPrejudiceTension

About this quote

What does it mean?
A priest warned that Indo‑Fijians are like weeds that take over land, reflecting native fears of foreign domination.
In plain terms
He likened Indo‑Fijians to invasive weeds threatening the nation.
What can you take from it?
The quote reveals ethnic tension and fear of demographic change.

Where it applies

  • inter‑ethnic relations
  • political rhetoric
  • social cohesion

Putting it to work

  • address xenophobic narratives
  • promote inclusive policies

Questions to consider

  • What impact does dehumanizing language have on society?
  • How can communities overcome such fears?

Another view

Such language dehumanizes a whole community and fuels conflict.

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