To support the umbrella Pacific Language Weeks theme of Sustainability, the Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta theme was chosen to build on from last year’s focus on the Four Pillars of Wellbeing.
In launching Rotuman Language Week 2022 today, Minister for Pacific Peoples, Aupito William Sio said that “Sustainability aligns to New Zealand’s opportunity to build back better from COVID-19 as we reopen to the world and reconnect with one another.”
“The theme also aligns with UNESCO’s International Decade of Indigenous Languages, which started this year, and recognises the right to preserve, revitalise and promote languages.”
The Hata Collective, representing many of the Rotuman communities in Aotearoa, selected the pillar that best supports the concept of sustainability – VETḀKI – which means to continuously do something without interruption.
“VETḀKI is a word rarely used in the current spoken language, so the use of this word in the theme signals the need for revival of Fäeag Rotuạm,” said Minister Sio.
“With only approximately 2,000 speakers on the islands of Rotuma, to nurture the Rotuman identity in Aotearoa, everyone must work together to revitalise and maintain Fäeag Rotuạm.”
Watch Minister Sio’s acknowledgement video above, as he officially launches Gasav Ne Fäeag Rotuạm Ta – Rotuman Language Week – for 2022.
Activities and events for Rotuman Language Week will be held throughout Aotearoa and online to showcase the richness of the Rotuman language, culture and traditions.
Stay connected online by visiting the official NZ Rotuman Language Week Facebook page.
For more Information, Events and Resources visit Ministry for Pacific People – Rotuman Language Week
