Tonga takes the stage at the 2016 FestPAC.
Brian Diettrich, Author provided (no reuse)
Political culture
FestPAC delegations have a long history of engaging with current social and political issues, including climate change and decolonisation. Global politics and regional identity often feature in various forms and forums.
During the 2004 festival on Palau, for example, host leaders invited an Indigenous delegation from Taiwan to take part as a means of emphasising the ancient Austronesian roots of the Pacific Islands. This took place against the backdrop of increasing competition for regional influence between the US and China.
The West Papuan independence struggle has also been communicated through song and performance. And this year’s festival offers a stage for Kanaka Maoli (Indigenous Hawaiians) to express solidarity within their own struggles with colonialism and militarisation.
Sadly, New Caledonia has withdrawn from the festival due to violent unrest over political representation and independence in the French territory. Nevertheless, Kanak music and song remains a vital expression of resistance and protest.
The withdrawal comes as New Caledonia is set to host the next festival in 2028. It’s a reminder of the enduring social and political struggles still happening in the region.
But as FestPAC makes a welcome return in Hawai‘i this week, there will be new opportunities for regional dialogue and solidarity across a vast yet connecting ocean. After a long wait, the past, present and future of the Pacific will come to life again in this unique and unifying event.
Source link : https://theconversation.com/regenerating-oceania-the-unique-and-unifying-festival-of-pacific-arts-and-culture-makes-a-comeback-227548
Author :
Publish date : 2024-06-05 19:00:55
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source.
