Twenty-seven Lesbian, Bisexual, and Queer (LBQ+) feminists from ten Pacific Island nations convened in Nadi, Fiji, for the second Pacific LBQ Working Group: Feminist Strategy Meeting held from January 21 to 23, 2026. This gathering aimed to create a platform for members representing LBQ activist groups from American Samoa, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Palau, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Vanuatu, Tuvalu, and West Papua to share their diverse identities, experiences, and the unique political landscapes they navigate.
This event follows an inaugural meeting that took place on November 5–6, 2024, in the same location, and is co-convened by DIVA for Equality and ILGA Oceania. The Working Group was initially formed during the third Pacific Human Rights Conference on SOGIESC in April 2024, where participants identified shared priorities.
The atmosphere in Nadi emphasized a message of strength and unity among the participants who aimed to collectively address urgent issues within their communities and organizations. This meeting plays a critical role in supporting the health and well-being of activist groups in the region as they engage in ongoing struggles for social justice.
The focus of the discussions revolved around intersectional feminist leadership, informed by Pacific worldviews, and concentrated on decolonial resistance and collective care. Participants engaged in dialogue about significant issues affecting their movements, including safety, sustainability, and the necessity for long-term community engagement. Members were encouraged to enhance their skills and knowledge to pursue feminist-driven efforts that are contextualized within their Pacific settings.
In her opening remarks, Her Excellency Jennifer Lalonde, the High Commissioner of Canada to Fiji, highlighted the significance of this gathering, stating, “This meeting celebrates the leadership, solidarity, and voices of Pacific LBQ communities, whose work and courage are shaping a stronger, more inclusive Pacific.” Canada expressed its pride in supporting these efforts through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI).
The Working Group emphasized the importance of connection and collaboration, with activists regularly meeting online to share insights and leverage advocacy opportunities across various levels. Noelene Nabulivou, Co-Executive Director of DIVA for Equality in Fiji, stressed the need to understand the complexities faced by LBQ feminist organizers, such as limited resources and growing pressures.
The group has already made significant strides, including submitting its first-ever statement to the United Nations Independent Expert on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity regarding violence and discrimination against LBQ women. This submission is set to be presented at the 62nd session of the UN Human Rights Council in June 2026.
Testimonies from participants further illuminated the significance of the platform. Louisa Wall, Women’s Chair of ILGA Oceania, emphasized that this gathering serves not just for advocacy but also as a means of gaining visibility and recognition of Indigenous LBQ peoples throughout the Pacific. Similarly, Melania Tanoa, a representative for LBQ+ women with disabilities, expressed how this environment cultivates her feminist capacity, emphasizing the need for education and empowerment.
Fiji feminist activist Ilisapeci Delaibatiki shared her views on the importance of regional solidarity. For Janette Olliver from the Cook Islands, the meeting provided an opportunity to unite, share knowledge, and develop informed responses to the distinct challenges faced by LBQ women, acknowledging their often marginalized and silenced voices.
The LBQ+ feminist organizers at the meeting are confronting pervasive issues such as criminalization, misogyny, and the impacts of climate change, recognizing that they are on the frontline of these pressing global challenges. The Working Group envisions a future where all Pacific people, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, can live with safety, dignity, and self-determination. This vision underscores the commitment to creating inclusive futures where all voices are heard and valued.