Talofa Lava, Greetings and Welcome to Samoa in the U.S. Diaspora
E fōfō e le alamea le alamea. (The alamea heals the alamea.)
Welcome to the Native Samoan Corporation
Our Story
In the heart of Alaska, a vibrant Samoan community thrived, carrying the rich traditions of their ancestors. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by their people in the Alaskan diaspora, they formed the Native Samoan Corporation. This wasn't a quest for traditional tribal sovereignty, but a dedicated effort to strengthen their community's well-being.
The corporation became a cultural beacon, organizing events that echoed the rhythms of Samoa, and offering language programs to preserve their heritage. Beyond cultural preservation, they focused on providing vital support to Samoan families, addressing needs in education, health, and social services.
Deeply valuing restorative justice, the corporation sought to bridge the gap between their community and the Alaskan justice system. They understood that traditional Samoan practices of conflict resolution, with its emphasis on 'fa'aaloalo' (respect) and reconciliation, could offer valuable insights.
Therefore, they began to work closely with the Alaska State Courts, offering their cultural expertise to aid in restorative justice proceedings. Their goal: to ensure that Samoan individuals within the justice system received culturally sensitive support, and that traditional values of healing and community restoration were honored.
The Native Samoan Corporation became a crucial link, ensuring that their community's voice was heard, and their cultural values respected, within the Alaskan landscape.