This public holiday in Fiji recognises the contributions of the Girmitiyas and their descendants in all walks of life, nationally and internationally.
Several key events will be held:
Thursday, May 11th: Commemoration of the wreck of the vessel, Syria, and the acknowledgement of the vanua of the rescue mission at Navilaca Village in Noco, Rewa.
Friday, May 12th: Visit Nukulau island – the first landing and quarantine site for indentured labourers. There are also plans for an eco tourism launch.
The public girmit exhibition showcasing 144 years of history will be showcased by cultural groups at Albert Park from Friday to Sunday. There will be traditional food stalls, rides, cooking competitions and arts shows.
There will also be a special program from 7pm to 9pm called Jhankaar Beats featuring girmit compositions and special guest artists.
Saturday, May 13th: From 10am to 1pm, there will be a girmit sports program at Albert Park and from 6pm to 9pm, there will be girmit folk performances.
Sunday, May 14th: A thanksgiving and national reconciliation service, where the members of the public are also invited, will be held from 2pm to 4pm at the Vodafone Arena. Also, a girmit attire show is also planned from 7pm to 9pm.
Monday, May 15th: The girmit parade starts from the Suva Flea market to Albert Park at 8am. The official program will be held from 9am to 1.30pm. A girmit conference will also be held on the 12th and 13th of May at USP.
