Talofa lava! This week, people all across Aotearoa New Zealand are celebrating Samoan Language Week. Events are being held in schools, libraries, and communities to honour Gagana Samoa, the Samoan language.
This year’s theme is “Ia malu lou sā. Folau i lagimā,” which means “A well-grounded self is a successful self.” It reminds everyone to stay strong in their identity as they move forward in life.
Gagana Samoa is the third most spoken language in New Zealand, after English and Te Reo Māori. The Ministry for Pacific Peoples is working with Samoan communities to support this special week.
Gerardine Clifford-Lidstone, Secretary for Pacific Peoples, said there is a lot of alofa (love) for the language. She encourages everyone to get involved by attending events or simply learning a few words.
Samoan Language Week is just one of 12 Pacific language weeks celebrated each year. Earlier this month, people celebrated Rotuman Language Week. Next up is Kiribati Language Week, starting on 6 July.
Here are a few Samoan sayings you might like to try:
Talofa lava – Hello
Fa’afetai – Thank you
Tofa soifua – Goodbye
O ā mai ‘oe? – How are you?
Happy Samoan Language Week!
