American Samoa Political Status, Constitutional Review, & Federal Relations

American Samoa House Chamber Hearing: Tapaau Dr. Daniel Aga, Director of the Office of Political Status, Constitutional Review & Federal Relations, and Attorney General Fainu'ulelei Falefatu Alailima Utu appeared on Thursday, August 15, 2024, to address questions regarding House Resolution No. 38-26, which pertains to the 2022 Constitutional Convention Amendments for U.S. Congress approval.

Standing (L-R): Honorable Tapai Alailepule Benjamin Vaivao - Maoputasi IV, Honorable Manavaalofa Tutuila Manase - Tualatai, & Honorale Luaitaua Gene Pan – Sua #1

Sitting (L-R): Director Tapa'au Dr. Daniel Aga, Attorney General Fainu'ulelei Falefatu Alailima Utu, Honorable Fetu Fetui Jr. - Manu’a, & Honorable Su'a Alexander Eli Jennings - Swains Island

Congratulations to Honorable Governor Lemanu P. S. Mauga (American Samoa 🇦🇸) and Honorable Governor Lourdes “Lou” Aflague Leon Guerrero (Guam 🇬🇺) for their visionary leadership in securing Associate Membership for American Samoa and Guam in the Pacific Islands Forum. This historic moment marks a significant step forward for our island nations, ensuring that we have a stronger voice and a more active role in addressing and contributing to regional issues.

Their efforts have paved the way for greater collaboration and engagement with our Pacific neighbors, and this milestone is a testament to their commitment to advancing the interests of our communities on the regional stage. We celebrate this achievement, knowing that it is only the beginning of more meaningful participation and influence in the Pacific region. 🌊

Also pictured (L-R): U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of Fiji, Kiribati, Tonga, Nauru, & Tuvalu, The Honorable Marie Damour & East West Center President, Suzanne “Suzy” Vares-Lum

American Samoa has officially joined the Pacific Islands Forum as an Associate Member!

After more than a decade as an observer, this milestone reflects the dedication and efforts of so many people behind the scenes who have worked tirelessly to achieve this goal.

This is a significant step towards ensuring that American Samoa has a voice at the table where decisions impacting our region are made.

While we celebrate this achievement, the real work begins now. Together, we’ll continue striving for the progress and opportunities our people deserve on this Blue Pacific Continent. 🇦🇸

Harvard Graduate Students Research Emergency Management and Accessibility in American Samoa

Emily Ratté and Rachel Jimenez, graduate students from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, returned to American Samoa to research emergency management and accessibility in the territory. Their journey towards this project began after meeting members of the American Samoan community during a visit last year as part of a previous course project. Today, they engaged in a meeting with the Office of Political Status Constitutional Review & Federal Relations to explore the intersections between territorial status, federal relationships, and emergency management capabilities.

The meeting covered topics related to regional coordination, community support networks, concerns for vulnerable populations, interagency coordination, & cultural preparedness.

Emily & Rachel will be meeting with various ASG agencies throughout their time in American Samoa.

(L-R) Su’a Richard Seumanutafa, Rev. Uaea Satele, Emily Ratté, Rachel Jimenez, & Director Tapa’au Dr. Daniel Aga

Shenandoah University Students Visit American Samoa under the Global Citizens Project

A delegation of students and staff from Shenandoah University are utilizing their spring break to visit American Samoa under the Global Citizens Project. This initiative is funded by the university to provide students with an immersive international travel and educational experience. Through a combination of cultural immersion, academic study, and community engagement, the program aims to foster global understanding, promote cross-cultural communication, and empower students to become compassionate and socially responsible leaders in an interconnected world.

The delegation was welcomed with a presentation that offered a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and political development of American Samoa, setting the stage for their exploration of the island.

Tuesday, March 12, 2024