Say Our Name: Australian South Sea Islanders

About the exhibition

More than just sugar, the histories and lived experiences of Australian South Sea Islanders are intricately woven into the tapestry of this country’s diverse cultural landscape. However, this part of Australia’s story remains relatively unknown. On the 30th anniversary of National Recognition for Australian South Sea Islanders, Say Our Name: Australian South Sea Islanders brings into focus the community’s tumultuous history and how in its aftermath a new community was born.

Come and take a moment to be a part of history and say our name, Australian South Sea Islanders.

“Strength and resilience are words we use to describe ourselves and we, Australian South Sea Islanders – or South Sea People – truly embody these qualities. Our community descends from South Sea Islanders blackbirded, coerced, taken and recruited into forced and unforced labour on Queensland’s sugar and cotton plantations in the late 19th century. Once called ‘the forgotten people’, Australian South Sea Islanders have a unique cultural identity and are a proud community who are still here today.” Imelda Miller, Curator, Say Our Name: Australian South Sea Islanders

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Recognition: 30 years on

On 25 August every year, Australian South Sea Islanders celebrate community. On this day 30 years ago, the Australian Government recognised Australian South Sea Islanders as a distinct cultural group and in doing so acknowledged their history of exploitation, discrimination, and resilience. In 2000, the Queensland Government also formally recognised Australian South Sea Islanders and their contribution this state’s economic and social foundations. What is the impact of recognition? How has it shaped identity? What does it say about Queensland?

Queensland Museum is proud to have developed this exhibition in collaboration with the Australian South Sea Islander community and extends respect and gratitude to the community for sharing their stories with us.