Kava and Climate: Justice for the Blue Pacific

The climate emergency is desperate and urgent, and the Pacific Islands are at the forefront of its effect despite collectively contributing to less than 0.03% of the world’s total carbon emissions. In the face of a worsening climate crisis, responsibility towards the health and protection of the vast Pacific Ocean, and the islands whose survival depends on it, is as vital as ever.

Join us for an intimate talanoa (talk) hosted by ‘Alopi Latukefu to hear how Pasifika communities are fighting for justice to save their Blue Pacific. Our guest speakers will take part in a Kava ceremony, gathering around a tanoa (Kava bowl). A Kava ceremony is a traditional communal practice for Pasifika peoples, where participants prepare and drink Kava together. The Kava drink’s sedative and numbing properties help to relax participants and encourage a personal and bonding exchange of ideas and stories. As they move through this ritual, our guest speakers will discuss the impacts of climate change on the Pacific region and the ongoing resilience of Pasifika peoples in the face of the climate crisis.

Presented in partnership with the Sydney Writers Festival.

'Alopi Latukefu is the Director of the Edmund Rice Centre for Justice & Community Education. He has nearly two decades of experience in economic diplomacy and foreign policy. Formerly the Director for the Global Education and Scholarships team in Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, 'Alopi managed the prestigious Australia Awards. 'Alopi has worked across governance, food security and economic programs in the Pacific as part of the Australia Aid program and as Chief of Staff and adviser to the Honourable Duncan Kerr SC during his tenure as Parliamentary Secretary for Pacific Island Affairs in the Rudd Government.

Raised in Papua New Guinea, 'Alopi has a familial legacy of education and leadership. Besides his professional accomplishments, he maintains a keen interest in music, regularly performing jazz gigs.