The Pacific Sexual and Gender Diversity Network (PSGDN) has raised serious concerns about the misuse of religious platforms in Fiji to promote harmful and discriminatory narratives against LGBTQI+ communities. Loata Tucika, the Interim Chief Executive Officer of PSGDN, reported a disturbing trend where religious leaders are using places of worship, free-to-air television, and social media to propagate messages that stigmatize vulnerable groups.
In her remarks, Tucika emphasized that places of worship should be sanctuaries of compassion and guidance rather than venues for hate. She warned that the influence of religious leaders, when directed towards dehumanizing beliefs, can have severe consequences that go beyond mere speech. “Such rhetoric creates fear, legitimizes discrimination, and places real people at risk,” she asserted.
Acknowledging the importance of freedom of religion and expression, Tucika pointed out that these rights carry responsibilities, particularly for those in positions of moral authority. Religious leaders are tasked with offering spiritual guidance, and their influence should not be used to incite hostility or justify harm against LGBTQI+ individuals. “Personal beliefs should not become weapons under the guise of faith,” she remarked.
In light of these issues, PSGDN has called on religious leaders across Fiji to focus on their spiritual obligations and to avoid perpetuating discrimination through their platforms. They have also appealed to the Online Safety Commission to actively monitor broadcasts where religious commentary may cross the line into harmful speech.
“Broadcast platforms must not become safe havens for unchecked rhetoric that undermines dignity, safety, and social cohesion,” Tucika highlighted. She underscored the importance of monitoring and accountability to ensure that public airwaves are not used to normalize harmful messages.
PSGDN remains dedicated to promoting respectful dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and the upholding of human dignity for all, including LGBTQI+ communities in the Pacific. Tucika concluded by stating, “Faith should be a source of unity and healing, not a tool for exclusion.” Through this compassionate approach, PSGDN is striving to foster a more inclusive environment for individuals of all identities.