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 the wives of Tamasese Malietoa and Mata'afa, seen left frame, who were significant leaders in the Women's Mau Committee, also known as the three Masiofo (Queens) of Samoa. They are seen wearing a beautiful aute (hibiscus flowers), ula lei (necklaces made from fresh flowers) and a titi (a piece of material that is tied around the waist which has strands of flowers attached to it) on top of their Mau uniform. Behind the three Masiofo, other women are sitting down. There are also launiu (coconut palm leaves) with pigs and other food items on top in front of the women. This is a part of the Samoan custom called fa'aaloaloga, which is the act of respect through the exchange of gifts, food, and money. Large pigs and food are presented to acknowledge one's services.

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