Wednesday 29 January 2025 | Written by Melina Etches | Published in Local, National
The organisation was established to promote the human rights, wellbeing and interests of all LGBTQI+ in the Cook Islands.
Pride Cook Islands president, Dean Kapi-Tangata, said: “Our theme this year – ‘From Struggle to Strength: A Tivaivai of Pride’, honours the legacy of those who have come before us, celebrates the progress we are making today, and envisions the future we are building together.”
“Like the art of tivaivai that weaves pieces of fabric into something beautiful and enduring, our community’s journey has been a tapestry of challenges, resilience, and triumphs.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to a Cook Islands where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.”
The theme celebrates not just the progress Pride has made, but also the inclusive future they continue to build.
“Every thread of our journey is meaningful, and every stitch adds to the story of a stronger, united community,” said Kapi-Tangata.
Anuanua Week 2025 will kick off with the grand opening of its Anuanua Wearable Arts Competition on April 11 that will showcase stunning wearable art inspired by flowers, symbolising the beauty and resilience of the Pride community.
This year, artists will create pieces inspired by (randomly selected) the local flowers of Tiare Māori, Tiare Taina, Tipani, Kaute, Heliconia, Ginger, and the Anthurium.
Artists will receive seed funding and are encouraged to create a piece with a “transformative reveal” element. Models should reflect the spirit of inclusivity and celebration. For more information or to receive the briefing pack, contact Mark on phone 55250, or Peter on 55732.
The week will conclude with a closing dinner on April 14.
The inspiration for Anuanua is drawn from national and global themes that highlight identity, community and freedom, as well as the Cook Islands’ 60th anniversary theme, “Kua kite au i toku turanga, e Avaiki toku” - I know who I am, I have a homeland”.
Anuanua is also inspired by the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexism, and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT) 2025 theme “The Power of Communities,” and the World Pride 2025 theme of “The Fabric of Freedom”.
“Together these themes celebrate the beauty of diversity, the strength of unity, and the power of community to drive positive change for all.”
Kapi-Tangata said the upcoming event “is a time to reflect on how far we’ve come, to celebrate where we are today, and to look forward to a future full of pride, love, and hope”.
“Our journey is one where past struggles inform our present strength and guide the inclusive future we are creating.”
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