Written by Porita Fruean (she/her)
I am the land,
the Spirit of my ancestors,
the Legends and Mysteries,
the vision of my forefathers, and the Ocean that connects all.
My skin is brown and the tapestry printed on my skin tells the story of my belonging,
I am a descendant of Tagaloa and this is the riddle of my being—
a tale of identity, heritage, and resilience.
I am the mysteries, the legends, history, and the crashing waves singing against volcanic shores.
The teine sa that lingers to protect our land in the night, and the waterfall where ancient chiefs' spirits dwell.
I am the heat of the sun, while my brothers harvest our land's fruits.
I am the blooming hibiscus on paths we walk barefoot around our fanua.
I am the coconut tree, the giant footprint, and the stars that guided my ancestors.
I am the drum that beats in the evening, the church that survived a volcanic eruption, a testament to my people's resilience.
I am the Giant turned mountain and a firm believer in service as leadership.
I am the ticking moon, the canoe, the oar, and the heart of bravery.
I am the land, the ocean, the sky, the stars, the moon, and the spirits of my forefathers.
I am the pearl of the Pacific.
Who am I?
I am the past, the one who danced with the stars before strangers came.
I am the bird that soared with trade winds, the citizen who lived peacefully before being called a savage.
I am the eleven men who died marching for freedom, the land stolen, and the silent tears of mothers.
I am the high chief who could not be bought, the voice of sovereignty, and the fighter for freedom.
Who am I?
I am the present, a blend of old and new with stories untold.
I am the ships that replace canoes, the colors of markets, and the dirt on struggling men's hands.
I am preserved in museums, now smooth roads and parliamentary buildings.
I am a blend of foreign influence and tradition, the polluted ocean, and the unfertilized land.
I am the privileged graduate, the leader of change, the struggling father, and the sent-to-overseas child.
I am the money-eating church, the rich getting richer, and the poor told to serve.
I am technology meeting tradition, skyscrapers rising endlessly.
I am the loss of respect and loyalty, the disputes in the Lands and Titles Court.
I am the chief title bestowed without service, the tapestry on those who don't speak my tongue.
I am the younger generation, head held high, the one now with all knowledge and strength.
I am the culture that is changing, the essence fading.
I was the land, culture, and respected owner.
I am now lost and greedy, losing the brown on my skin and in my blood.
Save me, resuscitate me, nurture me back to life for the children.
Who am I?