Fare Te Aroha: A Safe Haven for Tahiti’s LGBTQ+ Community
A Welcoming Space for Support in the Heart of Papeete
In a quiet alleyway in downtown Papeete, just across from the former Piano Bar, the association Cousins, Cousines de Tahiti has opened a new community center called Fare Te Aroha. Designed as a place of care, safety, and connection, this vibrant space offers support to LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing homelessness, isolation, or discrimination.
Driven by the Vision of Cousins, Cousines de Tahiti
The initiative is led by Karel Luciani, president of the association, who explained on La 1ère: “Our mission is grounded in mutual support and guidance.” The center serves as a sanctuary where everyone can feel listened to, protected, and supported. Trained members of the association will be present daily, working alongside healthcare professionals—including nurses and psychologists—to provide well-rounded emotional and medical support.
A Timely Response to Critical Social Challenges
This project responds to mounting concerns about the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth in Polynesia. Many young people continue to face rejection from their families, resulting in homelessness and a life on the streets. In some heartbreaking cases, individuals as young as 14 or 15 have turned to survival sex work. Others endure domestic abuse, often developing deep psychological scars. As Luciani noted, “This is unacceptable. With Fare Te Aroha, we now have a place to offer hope, listening, and guidance to those who need it most.”
Essential Services and Strong Outreach from Day One
Within just its first week of operation, Fare Te Aroha is already offering onsite assistance and outreach services. The organization SOS Suicide provides support every Monday and Thursday morning. Additionally, Thursday nights from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. are dedicated to outreach programs hosted by Agir contre le sida, offering STI screenings and consultations with healthcare professionals from the French Polynesia Hospital Center (CHPF).
Empowering Through Education and Advocacy
While emergency support is a priority, Fare Te Aroha is equally focused on education and long-term empowerment. Upcoming workshops will explore vital topics such as gender identity, transitioning, and how to navigate legal resources for victims of homophobic and transphobic violence. These sessions are designed to equip individuals with practical knowledge and tools to advocate for their rights and build a secure future with dignity.
Government Support for a Lasting Impact
The opening of Fare Te Aroha is made possible in part by public funding. The government has awarded a grant of 2 million Pacific francs to support the launch and continued operation of the center. This funding underscores a growing commitment to providing essential social services for the LGBTQ+ community in Tahiti.