Community Mapping Project by Shayal Kumar

Area of Focus

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:10:20 UTC

In order to delve into the group we’re discussing, it's important to understand where they originate from. I chose to research Indo-Fijians/Fijians in the area of Hayward and Union City.

Background

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:14:57 UTC

Fiji is a small island located in Melanesia which is part of Oceania in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean. This is the focus group for this project. I am researching the Fijians/Indo-Fijians that settled in Hayward and Union City moving to this country.

Why Move?

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:21:57 UTC

In 1987, Fiji experienced two military coups led by Sitiveni Rabuka, overthrowing a newly elected multiethnic government. The coups were driven by fears among indigenous Fijians of losing political power to Indo-Fijians. As a result, Fiji became a republic, faced international backlash, and many Indo-Fijians emigrated along with indigenous Fijians that did not agree with the outcome.

Why Hayward and Union City?

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:27:00 UTC

Once a few Fijian families moved to Hayward, others followed, creating a growing network of family and friends that provided support with housing, jobs, and adjusting to life in the U.S. The area was affordable compared to San Francisco or San Jose but close enough to them to get good and reliable job opportunities

Church

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:29:47 UTC

Fijian immigrants in Union City have found spiritual and community support through various local churches.While there isn't a church exclusively designated for Fijian congregants, several churches in the area have been welcoming and accommodating to the Fijian community including the St. Anne Catholic Church

FANA

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:33:54 UTC

The Fiji American National Association(FANA) promote Fijian culture, values, and community engagement among Fijians in the U.S. They rganize events like Fiji Festival USA and high school reunions, and provide networking opportunities for Fijian Americans

Fiji community of California

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:35:40 UTC

A non profit that supports Fijian immigrants through cultural preservation, community services, and educational initiatives.

Fiji Sweet & Snack

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:37:08 UTC

This local place offers cultural snacks such as sweets that Fijians can indulge in that would remind them of back home.

Asaan Grocery Mart

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:38:45 UTC

This grocery store is one of few, where this group can buy products that are from Fiji.

Fiji Festival

skumar101_1 — 2025-05-08 05:40:08 UTC

The Fiji Festival USA is an annual celebration held in Hayward, California, that brings together the Fijian diaspora and the broader Bay Area community to honor Fijian culture, heritage, and community spirit. Organized by the Fiji American National Association (FANA), the festival has become a significant event for Fijians in the United States. Their 15th annual event was even held on our own East Bay Hayward campus in 2017.