Tutokotasi

'Tutokotasi' means 'stand by yourself' which is Tuvaluan for 'independence.' On October 1, 1978, Great Britain granted Tuvalu independence. This new island nation was formerly known as Ellice Islands, part of the Gilbert and Ellice colony. Tuvalu is the original name meaning 'eight standing together' which represents the eight islands in the Tuvalu group. In October, 1998, this unique island nation celebrated its 20th anniversary of independence with festivities involving the eight island communities. This documentary covers the events that took place over the two-week celebration and provides a fascinating insight into the culture and way of life on this remote Pacific island nation.