In a heartfelt tribute to the memory of Sanarosa, a young girl whose tragic story has touched our community, the Samoa Victim Support Group (SVSG) will hold a Closure Ceremony on Friday, 4 October 2024.
This event not only commemorates her life but also sends a powerful message to the youth of Samoa: to cherish life, live fully, and stop the violence.
Sanarosa’s case, which concluded with her biological father receiving a 20-year prison sentence, highlights the devastating impact of abuse and the critical importance of justice. While her life was tragically cut short by horrific circumstances, we must honor her memory by fostering a culture of care, respect, and understanding among our young people – one that rejects violence in all its forms.
Recent incidents of violence among college students in Samoa have highlighted the urgent need for transformational change. It is our collective responsibility to our children.
“I urge the youth to recognize the preciousness of life and to choose paths that uplift rather than harm.
You are blessed to have parents who embrace you when you return home from school—families that protect you fiercely. The children at the Campus of Hope remind us of the harsh reality of violence,” says Siliniu Lina Chang, President of SVSG. “I plead with the college students, the youth of Samoa: please do not let Sanarosa’s death be in vain.”
Sanarosa’s story serves as a poignant reminder that everyone has a future worth fighting for—one filled with hope, love, and endless possibilities. Sanarosa fought for her right to live to the end. Hence, from beyond the grave, she continues to advocate for an end to violence against children through her dying message of hope: “Let what happened to me end with me. In a Christian nation, children should grow up safely within their families. I wasn’t. I urge all parents to please, love your children.”
“As ‘Mama Lina’ to thousands of abused children like Sanarosa, whom we have rescued, restored, and reintegrated into society, I call upon the youth of Samoa to be a Torch of Change—a beacon of hope for others, not a source of violence. Please do this in memory of Sanarosa, who could not surpass her teenage years due to violence”, urges Siliniu Lina Chang.
The Closure Ceremony will take place at Sanarosa’s resting place at her family home. It will feature speeches from community leaders, heartfelt tributes, and opportunities for youth to reflect on the importance of compassion and connection. We invite SVSG’s family of supporters to join us in this solemn yet empowering gathering, either in person or virtually.
Let us come together to honor Sanarosa’s memory and commit ourselves to building a safer, more loving future for the youth of Samoa. Together, we can break the cycle of violence and inspire a generation to cherish life and support one another.
For more information about the Closure Ceremony, please contact SVSG Helpline at 800-7874.
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SOURCE – Samoa Victim Support Group
