New book tackles abortion stigma in Fiji, calls for open conversation and support

A new book, "The Silent Cry," has been released in Fiji with the aim of sparking conversations about abortion and the value of life. Co-author and Pastor Letitia Shelton stated that the book intends to initiate difficult discussions on an issue that is a reality but rarely addressed openly. The publication serves as an appeal for churches and communities to offer support and help, moving beyond judgment.

Shelton expressed the book's purpose: "When we can speak life and we can offer help and hope rather than just saying, you know, you’re a sinner. We are pioneering tonight because this is a topic that has not been spoken about. We’re going to disrupt darkness and it will be awkward and people won’t like it. And yes, but may we do that."

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When we can speak life and we can offer help and hope rather than just saying, you know, you’re a sinner. We are pioneering tonight because this is a topic that has not been spoken about. We’re going to disrupt darkness and it will be awkward and people won’t like it. And yes, but may we do that.

Pastor Ritchie Yagomate, also involved with the book, stressed that abortion is not solely a woman's issue but also concerns men, who play a crucial role in supporting women through pregnancies. He urged young men to respond with empathy and solidarity when informed of a pregnancy.

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We often hear about abortion, and sometimes we think this is just a woman’s issue. But I believe it’s also a man’s issue that we’ve got to start thinking about.

Yagomate advised, "To every young man that I hear today, hear me carefully that when your girlfriend tells you that she is pregnant, your first words matter. Don’t say, you have ruined my life. Don’t say, go fix it. Instead say, we’ll face this together. Those five words will change generations."

The book reflects the silent struggles surrounding abortion in Fiji, with the hope of promoting healing through the sharing of personal stories and fostering a more supportive environment.

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To every young man that I hear today, hear me carefully that when your girlfriend tells you that she is pregnant, your first words matter. Don’t say, you have ruined my life. Don’t say, go fix it. Instead say, we’ll face this together. Those five words will change generations.