Catholic nun Sister Teresia Tinanisolo recently spoke at the Truth and Reconciliation Commission held at the Suva Civic Centre, emphasizing the vital roles of forgiveness and healing in rebuilding societal ties. Reflecting on her past activism following the 1987 coup in Fiji, she shared her experiences of advocating for those who felt frightened and traumatized, writing to The Fiji Times to amplify their voices during a time of political upheaval.
A particularly poignant moment in her address was her personal reconciliation with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who led the coup. In a heartfelt exchange, she approached him and expressed her wish for peace, stating, “I would like to make peace with you.” This courageous act not only marked a significant milestone in her own healing journey but also underscored her belief that reconciliation requires effort from both victims and perpetrators, operating what she described as “a two-way fence.”
Sister Teresia’s reflections resonate with the ongoing discussions surrounding the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in Fiji, which seeks to address and heal the wounds inflicted by past conflicts. Reverend Anil Reuben from the Methodist Church has echoed her sentiments, underscoring the need for collective healing and forgiveness while advocating for the sharing of personal truths among the Indigenous and Indo-Fijian communities. He highlights the importance of confronting historical grievances that have often been left unspoken.
The narratives emerging from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission meetings reveal a shared commitment to mutual recovery. As Fiji continues to navigate the complexities of its past, Sister Teresia’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the potential for dialogue to bridge divides. The call for communities to come together, to “share and heal,” emphasizes the critical need for collaborative efforts toward understanding and peace, fostering a hopeful future built on compassion and unity.