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Amata supports Talauega’s testimony at virtual hearing

Screenshot of Legislative hearing
Each calls for citizenship issue to be determined locally
Source: Media release from Cong. Uifaatali Amata's office

Washington, D.C. — Wednesday, Lieutenant Governor Talauega Eleasalo Va’alele Ale and Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata took part in a congressional hearing, in which the Lieutenant Governor testified in “strong opposition” to a proposed Insular Cases Resolution. The Congresswoman agreed and supported the Lt Governor’s call to ensure protections of American Samoa’s culture, land and traditions. Instead, they urge that Congress must consult with American Samoa, and distant courts should not decide the status of the people.

The legislative hearing was held virtually before the full House Committee on Natural Resources on the Insular Cases Resolution. 

(See details of Talauega’s testimony in companion story in this issue.)

In introducing her questions, Uifa’atali reinforced the Lt Governor’s message to Congress saying, “One may disagree with the racist tones underlying the Insular Cases, but don’t abandon the wishes of the residents of American Samoa in the process.”

“Finally, I want to point out that American Samoa is unique by virtue that it became the only U.S. territory by deeds of cession, starting in 1900. The matai (local chiefs) of Tutuila, the largest island in American Samoa, voluntarily ceded the island to the United States in 1900. And Manu'a followed in 1904.”