In this podcast Phylesha Brown-Acton delivers a keynote presentation. Phylesha is introduced by Maryan Street. The presentation happened during the third plenary session: Movement building for change.
Summary
This abstract summarizes a recording from the Asia Pacific Outgames in 2011, where Phylesha Brown-Acton delivers a keynote presentation on movement building for change. In this presentation, Phylesha Brown-Acton starts by expressing gratitude for the efforts of all the individuals who made the event possible and extends warm acknowledgments to the different Pacific and international communities present.
Speaking as a Pacific delegate and highlighting a diverse cultural heritage, the presenter underlines that the identity of Pacific peoples does not align with the Western LGBTI acronym. These communities have unique cultural terminology that better defines their identity, and Brown-Acton emphasizes the importance of including these culturally appropriate terms when addressing Pacific peoples.
The speaker criticizes the umbrella term LGBTI as ill-fitting for Pacific communities, suggesting it represents a medical and foreign categorization system that contradicts Pacific traditions. These sentiments stem from a disconnect observed during conversations with participants at the event. Brown-Acton expresses the urgency of addressing a ‘hit list’ of concerns that have been raised, including the inappropriate use of the term LGBTI, the inclusion of culturally relevant identity terms, and the nonexistent representation of Pacific peoples at AsiaPacific and global forums.
A powerful reflection is offered on the misuse of the term LGBTI and the need for international entities seeking Pacific support or votes to learn and respect the 22 distinct words that accurately describe the sexual orientation and gender identities found across the Pacific region. Brown-Acton provides a mnemonic (MVPFAFFM) for remembering some of these terms and encourages others to recognize the inherent cultural value in doing so.
Additionally, the presenter acknowledges the efforts of Samoan Fa'afafine Association for their advocacy work at the United Nations level. There's a strong call for documents and endorsements like a Joint Statement on human rights to use proper terms that resonate culturally, to lead to more meaningful engagement with local leaders and communities.
Brown-Acton further argues that the lack of inclusivity and understanding could hinder the overall effectiveness of international efforts and highlights the disparity between the numbers of Pacific countries relative to large nations such as India. The speech calls for a future where, within the context of the Outgames vision statement, the Pacific community is better included and represented.
In closing, appreciation is extended to the Kingdom of the Netherlands for its support of the Pacific voice, highlighted by the historic inclusion of individuals from American Samoa at the conference. Brown-Acton concludes by insisting that the term AsiaPacific should only be used if it truly represents the inclusion and perspectives of Pacific peoples.
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