Washington, D.C. — American Samoa’s Constitution Day is October 17th, and marks 70 years since American Samoa’s first Samoan governor has held the office. 

On October 15, 1956, Uifa’atali Governor Peter T. Coleman was pictured with President Dwight D. Eisenhower, Interior Secretary Fred Seaton, and departing appointed Governor Richard Lowe. 

“This is the 70th anniversary of that historic moment, our American Samoan-born Governor on the day he took office standing with the great President Eisenhower, and it will always be a milestone in our islands’ self-determination and self-governance,” said Congresswoman Amata. 

“On Saturday, we have another related major milestone, our Constitution Day. On October 17, 1960, our first Constitution went into effect, 60 years after our Tutuila forefathers joined the United States and 56 years after Manu’a joined.” 

“These two special dates in our history will always be paired closely, along with other key developments and our Flag Day most of all. 

“Our forefathers successfully gave us the chance to treasure our Samoan way and be part of a great country. They would be proud to see that generations since have served honorably and our islands’ self-government has advanced with additional milestones, while our people are raising up leaders of the future who will be ready to continue this legacy.”