Tongan Women Speak Out on Kava Harassment

0:00This is Kori with the story, and here's what is making news across Sydney right now. Women in Tongan communities are speaking out about harassment they faced while serving Kava at social gatherings. These women, known as Tua, often sit at the center of all male circles, pouring the calming drink during late-night sessions. Many describe unwanted touching, crude comments, and pressure for sexual acts at informal events called Fikeva. Online platforms have amplified these stories, with podcaster Akanezi Kafuzi sharing anonymous accounts from women who gave consent. A video from a Utah Kava group showing explicit behavior when viral earlier this year, sparking wider debate. Police in Tongan note no formal complaints yet, but say women might hesitate to report. The two-a-roll holds the cultural meaning, tied to royal traditions from a specific Tongan village. Women take it on to build skills, earn money, or support the community, serving in places like New Zealand, Tonga, and the U.S.

1:00Instructured ceremonies, strict protocols keep things respectful. However, in diaspora groups abroad, traditional elders and rules have weakened, leading to eroded respect. Activists call for banning female Tua from casual sessions to protect women, while chiefs argue the role is unchangeable custom. Leaders highlight Kava circles as safe spaces from alcohol and drugs for young people. Lawyers stress separating crime from culture, urging focus on harassers, not the practice. Some Tua recall positive interventions by group members who stepped in to deescalate. Leaders agree Kava groups need higher standards to maintain dignity. DNN is brought to you by our sponsor. If sleep podcasts are your thing, this is your pillow. Built for comfort and calm, S-O-L-I, solelypillow.com.