Letila Mitchell warns of cultural erosion and urges reconnection to indigenous practices

Renowned cultural advocate Letila Mitchell has raised concerns about cultural erosion, emphasizing that traditional communal support structures are breaking down as Pacific communities adopt Western models unsuited to their way of living.

Mitchell made these remarks while responding to a question at the Culture, Heritage, and Tolerance Symposium.

She highlighted that more elders are being placed in old people’s homes where they are not adequately cared for, while young people are increasingly vulnerable.

She says it’s a cultural breakdown that we need to address urgently.

Mitchell also stressed the need to re-evaluate indigenous practices and knowledge systems to create sustainable ways of living that align with the modern urban environment.

She warned that without change, more young people will become vulnerable.

Mitchell urged all Fijians to work together to create pathways for the children and youth, ensuring they feel they have a meaningful role in society.