Opinion
An Open Letter to the Editor:
American Samoa continues to face serious challenges in funding essential services such as law enforcement, education, road maintenances, and long-term infrastructure. As our island looks for sustainable and responsible ways to strengthen our economy and protect our...
We are thousands of miles apart, but the Pacific Ocean unites our islands. The archipelagos of the Mariana Islands (the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam) and American Samoa — are also united by the shared struggle against undemocratic governance and a resounding message to the federal government:...
Dear Pacific Leaders:
Guam’s medical oversight system is broken — and the danger is that its failures could spread across the Pacific. The Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB) is actively courting jurisdictions including Palau, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and others....
As American Samoa bids farewell to Fofo Iosefa Fiti Sunia, we honor a pioneer whose intellect and service helped shape our modern political and cultural landscape.
Though the transition from U.S. Naval rule occurred when he was still a youth, Fofo belonged to the first generation of Samoans to...
Talanei’s recent report confirmed what many already sensed: planners of the new Maota Fono dedication discussed giving cash envelopes to Senators and Representatives. Some deny it. Others admit it. The details shift — the mindset does not.
The fact that such an idea even surfaces, in this moment of...
When I first watched The Book of Eli, I thought it was a film about faith in a broken world. Only later did I realize it was also a lesson about governance, integrity, and the corruption of meaning — themes deeply relevant to our Samoan condition today.
In the film, civilization has collapsed, and...
For over half a century, the Shriners have been a beacon of hope in American Samoa, embodying a mission of selflessness and service to children in need. Since establishing their presence more than 50 years ago, the Shriners have worked tirelessly to support the Shriners Hospitals for Children, a...
Dear Editor:
The American Samoa Economic Development Authority (ASEDA) has announced its intent to issue two new bond series — the 2025A and 2025B — with a combined value of up to $65 million. The first, a refinancing bond of $50 million, is meant to retire the 2015A bonds; the second, $15...
Dear Amata,
I'm not a Dem, but I strongly oppose using Federal monies for veterans to promote the Republican agenda.
Email excerpt I received today from VA:
"How the government shutdown impacts VA
Oct 1 at 8:21 AMAs you may be aware, funding for some government agencies, including portions of the...
Honorable Leaders and Members of the Fono,
In Letter #1, I warned that the Fund cannot survive without honesty about the $13.9 million debt and the principle of fiduciary duty. In Letter #2, I outlined reforms aimed at restoring fairness and sustainability.
This third letter turns to the heart...