WEEKLY REVIEW 311: SAMOAN INDEPENDENCE…UNITED NATIONS MISSION

Photograph taken on location in Samoa during filming by the National Film Unit (NFU) of the United Nations (UN) Mission visit in 1947. Related to ref. F768 ‘Weekly Review 311’ (1947). A delegation from the UN meet with the Paramount Chiefs of Samoa and the Fono a Faipule, among others, to determine the wishes of the people regarding independence from the New Zealand Trusteeship.

Exterior mid-shot capturing a Palagi man, centre frame, making his way to shore in a va'aalo (va'a=canoe alo=to row), which is a small canoe that the Samoan people use for fishing. A Samoan man is seen next to him, right frame. Having good balance is important when using a va'aalo, so it is possible that he is there to ensure the Palagi man's safety. Also seen left frame are Samoan men who are carrying luggage and belongings to shore.

Description kindly provided by Va'aomanū Pasifika (Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington) intern, To'aga Alefosio.