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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 18, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega and people of American Samoa join Hawaii and the rest of the nation in mourning the loss of a great man, Fofoga o Samoa Senator Daniel K. Inouye
Congressman Faleomavaega today offered his personal condolences on the passing of Fofoga o Samoa Senator Daniel K. Inouye of Hawaii. Senator Inouye passed away peacefully on December 17, 2012 at Walter Reed Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.
"Today, we have a lost a father, a hero, and a true friend of American Samoa," Faleomavaega said. "There is no doubt Senator Inouye was a strong advocate for the people of Hawaii but he was also instrumental in helping the people of American Samoa and all our Territories and neighbors in the Pacific."
"I remember in early 1990 when, as a new Member of Congress, I was personally invited by the Senator to accompany him on a Congressional Delegation for a Pacific tour that included American Samoa. It was an honor and a privilege accompanying him on this trip because it showed me his deep understanding and care for all of the people in the Pacific. Just as he was a boy that was born and raised in a Territory (Hawaii), he felt it was the right thing to do to help our Territories. This was just a small sample of the Senator's leadership and diligence in recognizing the importance of helping our Territories and the Freely Associated States."
"On the Hill, Fofoga o Samoa Senator Inouye was a giant. He was greatly respected not only for his service as a Senator but also his patience and ability to work with both sides of the aisle. Being a Territory and having a small population, it is very difficult to move legislation without representation in the Senate, and Senator Inouye was always there for American Samoa. He was a fighter for the rights of Native Hawaiians and a pioneer for all Asian and Pacific Americans," Faleomavaega said.
"As a proud former member of the 442nd 100th Battalion, I can only thank the Senator and his comrades for their service and 'Go For Broke' attitude which has laid the path for many of our own Samoan sons and daughters to serve in the greatest military force. We are forever grateful for the Senator’s service to our nation and for his love and compassion for the people of American Samoa."
"The people of American Samoa join Hina and I in extending our deepest condolences the Senator's wife, Irene, and the whole Inouye family. Our prayers and thoughts are with them as we mourn together the passing of a true hero," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 29, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega congratulates Tulsi Gabbard as first Samoan woman elected to the U.S. Congress
Congressman Faleomavaega today congratulated Tulsi Gabbard on her recent election to the U.S. House of Representatives. Gabbard will become the first Samoan-American congresswoman after her swearing in ceremony at the opening of the 113th Congress.
She will fill the seat for Hawaii's Congressional District 2 which will be vacated by Mazie Hirono who was recently elected to the U.S. Senate seat to be vacated by Senator Daniel Akaka who is retiring at the end of current Congress.
"I am very proud of Tulsi and I congratulate her for her remarkable victory and election as the first ever Samoan woman elected to the U.S. Congress," said Congressman Faleomavaega.
"As we're both natives of American Samoa, I thank Tulsi for her shining example to our Samoan community and Pacific Islanders as a motivated young leader, a military veteran, and a dedicated public servant. I also commend the Gabbard family for their living example of public service to the Samoan community and to the State of Hawai'i, and especially, Tulsi's father, Mike Gabbard, who is also a forerunner, paving the way as the first person of Samoan descent to serve in the Hawaii State Senate."
"Born in the village of Leloaloa, American Samoa to Carol and Mike Gabbard, Tulsi was later raised in Hawai'i. She went on to graduate with a degree in international business from Hawaii Pacific University in Honolulu, Hawaii, and at the young age of 21, she became the youngest person elected to the Hawai'i State Legislature and the youngest woman in the U.S. elected to any state legislature."
"Shortly after her political career debut, at age 23, Tulsi was Hawaii's first elected official to voluntarily resign to go to war. She served in Iraq from 2004 to 2006 with the Hawai'i National Guard's 29th Brigade Combat Team. Again in 2008, commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant, Tulsi deployed to Kuwait to assist in training the Kuwait National Guard. At age 28, she was the first woman to be presented with an award by the Kuwait Army National Guard, and in 2011, she was commissioned as a Captain in Hawaii's National Guard."
"I once again thank Tulsi for her example to our Samoan people. It is comforting to have another Samoan Member of Congress who is also intimately aware of American Samoa and the issues facing our people. I wish Tulsi the very best as she begins her service in the U.S. House of Representatives. I look forward to working with her in the coming years," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 20, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Federal District Court grants Faleomavaega's motion to participate as Amicus Curiae
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Richard J. Leon, the presiding judge in Tuaua v. United States (the Citizenship lawsuit), granted a motion for leave and accepted the amicus curiae brief that the Congressman filed earlier this month. In order to file an amicus curiae brief, the petitioner must first request permission from the court to file a motion for leave to participate.
"On November 8, 2012, with the assistance of pro bono attorneys at Kirkland & Ellis, I filed a motion for leave to participate as amicus curiae. Both the defendants and the plaintiffs in the Citizenship lawsuit did not oppose the motion for leave to file the amicus curiae brief," Faleomavaega said.
"I am pleased that on November 15, 2012, Judge Leon granted my motion for leave and accepted the amicus curiae brief in support of the defendants. This means the amicus curiae brief is now made an official part of the court record in the Citizenship lawsuit."
"As I stated before, my intent in filing the amicus brief is to bring to the Court's attention information that may prove useful in deciding the case. As a representative for American Samoa to the Congress for over 20 years, it is my responsibility to help protect and preserve our Samoan culture and way of life."
"For this purpose, the amicus brief is important to describe for the court in detail the history and culture of American Samoa and, importantly, the dangers of applying the Citizenship Clause to our territory and the significant impact it will have on our culture," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega makes historic bid for top spot on House Foreign Affairs Committee
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he is making a bid for Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee.
"I have proudly served on the Committee since I was first elected to Congress in 1988, and I now have more seniority than any other returning Democratic member," Faleomavaega said. "Since 2006, I have served as Chairman and now Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific."
"At a time when the Obama Administration has made clear that U.S. foreign, economic and security policy must "pivot" toward Asia - a region that accounts for more than 60% of the world's population - I believe I am the most experienced and qualified candidate for Ranking Member of the Committee. I have established strong ties and personal relationships with key government officials, including Heads of State, business leaders, and civil society activists throughout the region, and am ready to address the numerous challenges - from human rights violations to nuclear proliferation - faced by the U.S. in this critical region."
"If chosen as Ranking Member, I would also work very hard to maintain and strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship, and one of my highest priorities - building on the outstanding work of outgoing Ranking Member Howard Berman - would be to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapons capability. In addition, I would fight to ensure that the State Department and USAID receive adequate funding for diplomacy and development, work to strengthen the U.S. role in Latin America and Africa, and pursue other foreign policy priorities important to members of the Democratic Caucus."
"Should I be successful in this bid, it would be the first time in the history of the U.S. Congress that an Asian-Pacific American would serve as Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee. Moreover, to my knowledge, my bid is unprecedented in that it will mark the first time in the history of the U.S. House of Representatives that a non-voting Delegate has ever had enough seniority to run for or serve as Ranking or Chairman of a full Committee. This is also the first time American Samoa ever has had an opportunity like this since electing its first Delegate to Congress in 1981."
"Therefore, because of the historic nature of my bid, I felt it was imperative for me - no matter the outcome - win, lose or draw - to break down these barriers and run this race on behalf of the people of American Samoa, the some 18 million Asian-Pacific Americans who make up this great nation of ours, as well as all Delegates who serve or will serve in the U.S. Congress."
"American Samoans have made an outsized sacrifice in defending our nation from WWII to every war since with the Iraq war death rate per 1 million population almost as high for American Samoa as for the 10 highest states combined. I, too, have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and the sons and daughters from D.C. and the other U.S. territories, including Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, CNMI, and Puerto Rico, have also made outsized sacrifices in defense of our country and, as such, I believe this - above all else - qualifies us for full-voting rights on the House Floor."
"Unfortunately, because I do not have full voting rights on the House floor, my bid for Ranking Member will be an uphill climb. It will also be an uphill climb for me to raise the kind of funds the Democratic Party expects a Ranking Member or Chairman to contribute to the Party, which can amount to as much as $300,000 or more every election cycle. The people of American Samoa have a per capita income of about $8,000 per year, by far probably the lowest in the United States, which makes it very difficult for me to compete against others who represent wealthier constituencies."
"Given these serious obstacles, I have no illusions about this race or the mainstream media coverage of this race or that some Members of Congress will stand with the establishment rather than a minority facing an uphill climb. However, I will do my best to run a race that centers on freedom and equality and, if nothing else, I hope my bid establishes a precedent whereby all Delegates can participate more fully," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 16, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega responds to Charles V. Alailima claims about citizenship lawsuit
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he is setting the record straight in response to a November 13, 2012 article by Samoa News based on comments by local attorney Charles Alailima and entitled, "The language of the [US] Constitution is clear, say proponents of citizenship."
"While it is disappointing that Mr. Alailima would seek to spread misinformation to the people of American Samoa, I appreciate the opportunity to set the record straight on the Citizenship lawsuit," Faleomavaega said.
"Mr. Alailima, the local attorney for the plaintiffs in the Tuaua v. United States (Citizenship lawsuit), claims that '...the argument that ... American Samoa is not part of the United States for the purposes of the Citizenship Clause has no merit whatsoever.' However, Mr. Alailima fails to provide any legal authority to support his assertion that American Samoa is part of the United States for purposes of the Citizenship clause. As I noted in my amicus curiae brief to the court on this matter, the U.S. Supreme Court has for over a century held that the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment does not extend birthright citizenship to United States nationals who are born in unincorporated territories. Downes v. Bidwell, 182 U.S. 244, 251 (1901)," Faleomavaega added.
"Mr. Alailima also accused me of 'speaking out against the individual right to citizenship protected by the U.S. Constitution' and Leneuoti Fiafia Tuaua, the lead plaintiff in the case, stated that I am attempting to deny him and his family U.S. citizenship."
"These accusations could not be further from the truth. I support the individual right of every person born in American Samoan to decide for themselves whether or not they want to become U.S. citizens. Any person born in American Samoa is free to apply for U.S. citizenship through the regular naturalization process."
"However, it is well established that Congress has the power to regulate birthright citizenship in any U.S. territory. In the cases of Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands, residents were granted birthright citizenship by congressional action. In every instance where residents of a U.S. territory were granted birthright citizenship, not one occurred by judicial decision, as Mr. Alailima is attempting to do in the Citizenship case."
"Mr. Alailima is advocating that citizenship be forced on all the people in American Samoa by judicial decree. If the Citizenship lawsuit is successful, people in American Samoa will not have a choice but to become a U.S. citizen."
"Mr. Alailima also claims that '...when American Samoa's traditional leaders signed the Deeds of Cession, they believed that citizenship was part of the deal.' He neglects to mention that when American Samoa's leaders were offered U.S. citizenship via Organic Act legislation in the 1930s and the 1950s they were concerned about potential negative consequences that birthright citizenship could have on the Samoan culture. Since the 1950s, new developments have shown that American Samoan culture can be preserved if citizenship is granted via Organic Act legislation. In Wabol v. Villacrusis, 958 F.2d 1450, 1461 (9th Cir 1990), the Ninth Circuit rejected a constitutional challenge to racially restrictive land alienation laws in the Northern Mariana Islands. The Ninth Circuit held that the Northern Mariana Islands status as an unincorporated territory was a factor in favor of upholding the restrictions against an equal-protection challenge. By using the Congressional process to obtain citizenship, American Samoans can ensure that our communal lands and matai system is protected.
"Mr. Alailima also neglected to mention the threat that granting birthright citizenship to American Samoans will have on our communal lands and matai titles. The existing legal framework established by Congress and the Supreme Court in the Insular Cases, prevent the full U.S. Constitution from applying to U.S. territories. If the Citizenship Clause is applied to American Samoa, it is likely that the entire U.S. Constitution will apply to the territory. The equal-protection clause of the Constitution will subject our communal land and matai title systems to heightened judicial scrutiny," Faleomavaega added.
"I do not oppose birthright citizenship for the people of American Samoa. If the majority of American Samoans want to become birthright citizens, I will work with Congress to grant citizenship to people born in American Samoa. However, I do oppose the imposition of citizenship on the people of American Samoa through a lawsuit by four individuals, since this judicial action could cause serious disruption to our culture."
"As I mentioned before, this decision should be put to the people of American Samoa, and not to a court." Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega hosts Boys and Girls Club of American Samoa in Washington, DC
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he hosted participants from the Boys and Girls Club of American Samoa (BGCAS) who were in Washington, D.C. as part of a partnership program with the Close Up Foundation. The group included 10 students ranging from 7th grade through high school and three chaperones.
The 10 students from American Samoa joined approximately 200 students representing over 20 Boys and Girls Clubs from across the nation during this week's program with Close Up in Washington, D.C. The program is a national partnership between the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and Close Up that serves military connected youth who participate in Boys and Girls Clubs. Each participating student must either have a parent in the military or a military sponsor.
The group arrived in the morning for their meeting with the Congressman, followed by lunch and a tour of the U.S. Capitol. Gathered in the Congressman's office the students shared their educational interests and plans for the future. They asked the Congressman many questions on topics ranging from the recent election in American Samoa to the responsibilities of Members of Congress.
After lunch, the Congressman personally led the group to the Chamber of the U.S. House of Representatives where the students took their seats in the House Gallery where they observed the Members deliberate on the House Floor. The group's visit coincided with the presentation of two floor statements offered by Congressman Faleomavaega before the House, including his statement in support of his original bill, H.R. 5934, the Stop Tobacco Smuggling in the Territories Act of 2012 which coincidentally passed the House today as well as his statement in support of H.R. 6116, a bill authored by U.S. Virgin Island's Representative, Congresswoman Donna Christensen.
Following their Gallery visit, Congressman Faleomavaega and the students gathered for a photo-op on the Capitol steps where they were joined by Faleomavaega's long-time friend and colleague, Congressman Mike Honda of California. The group was later led by the Congressman's staff on a tour of the U.S. Capitol, including the Capitol Visitors Center, the Crypt of the U.S. Capitol, the Capitol Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall.
"I thank our students for their commitment to their educational success as evident by their participation in this unique program. I also thank them for representing American Samoa with the utmost excellence and for sharing their inquisitive questions and dialogue with me in my Washington office," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"I also want to thank their chaperones, Kathryn McCutchan, Eucharist Reupena, and Leilua Stevenson for their support of the Boys and Girls Club mission and for their leadership and example towards our young people. Lastly I'd like to thank the Close Up Foundation for hosting the group and allowing my office to be a part of their 'living classroom' in Washington experience."
The Congressman added, "In August 2012, under the leadership of American Samoa's First Lady Mary Ann Tulafono, the Boys and Girls Club of American Samoa opened, joining over 3,900 Boys and Girls Clubs across the United States. For her remarkable leadership, I also want to express my deep gratitude to the First Lady and her staff for the extraordinary success they have achieved in such a short time."
The following is a list of students and chaperones that visited the Congressman's Washington, D.C. office.
Boys and Girls Clubs Participants:
Chaperones:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 14, 2012
Washington, D.C. - House approves bill to stop tabacco smuggling in the territories
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that the House, by voice vote, passed H.R. 5934, legislation to stop tobacco smuggling in the Territories. The bill, known as the Stop Tobacco Smuggling in the Territories Act of 2012, was introduced in June by Congressman Faleomavaega to amend the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act of 1978 to include American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, and Guam.
"I would like to thank Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Mr. Lamar Smith, and Ranking Member, Mr. John Conyers Jr. and all members of the committee for their support on this bill. I also want to acknowledge Speaker John Boehner, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor and Democratic Leader Nancy Pelosi for their leadership," Faleomavaega said.
"American Samoa faces a serious problem of tobacco smuggling. According to a recent study, in 2010 alone, as many as 5,792,924 cigarettes were smuggled into the territory. The study found that tobacco smuggling resulted in a loss of about $724,116 in revenues to the American Samoan government," Faleomavaega added.
"Under the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act that Congress passed in 1978, it is illegal to ship, sell, transport or possess more than 10,000 cigarettes (500 packs) per month not bearing the tax stamp of the jurisdiction in which they are found. Violation is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison and seizure of the contraband cigarettes. These penalties do not currently apply to American Samoa because neither American Samoa, nor Guam or the Commonwealth of the Northern Marinas Islands were included in the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act."
"H.R. 5934 will amend the Contraband Cigarette Trafficking Act to include American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, and give law enforcement an additional tool in combating tobacco smuggling in American Samoa, by creating stricter penalties for those caught smuggling tobacco."
"I will continue to follow this issue closely as H.R. 5934 is now on its way to the Senate for its consideration," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 8, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega extends best wishes to veterans and service members; also rememebers fallen heroes on Veterans Day
Congressman Faleomavaega today issued the following statement to extend his congratulations and best wishes to all Veterans in American Samoa and abroad for a peaceful and happy commemoration of this year's Veterans Day.
"I am honored to share this special day with all our Veterans residing in the territory and abroad, reminiscing and paying tribute to our comrades who gave their lives in defense of our country - from WWI and all fronts and fields of conflicts to include the Iraq and Afghanistan wars so the world could live in peace and freedom," Faleomavaega said.
"To the survivors of the Fitafitas who served in the Korean Conflict and the Vietnam war, we acknowledge and share your hidden pain, anger and despair that you so stoically suffered as comrades who willingly gave their lives to serve their country. Your passion as warriors to 'never leave a soldier behind,' moved many of you to return to the front lines, back to the killing fields of Vietnam. Sadly all of you have returned suffering from some form of psychological, physical or spiritual trauma."
"Today we celebrate and honor you. May I also extend the honor to all our comrades who have passed on and could not be with us today. I also offer a special tribute to honor our fallen heroes who are still Missing in Action (MIA), on foreign soil in Europe, Asian/Pacific shores and in the jungles of Vietnam.
"Our desire is to pay tribute and bring a healing closure to the survivors and family members, as together we listen to the profound echoing sounds of the TAPS, the sound of the last bugle call."
"To the TOA Samoa, you are the living legacy that has transcended from our Fitafitas who first answered the call to war in the 1940's. You are now making that ultimate sacrifice serving from the Persian Gulf to the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. It is in your blood to 'tautua toto'."
"In commemoration and especially to the 17 sons and daughters of Samoa who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country while serving during the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, let us remember their souls in our prayers, and especially their grieving families and friends. Our nation will always remain the land of the free for as long as it is the home of the brave. And all of them are truly brave men and women."
"I want to take this opportunity to offer my personal condolences to the parents of our heroes who gave their lives for all to live in peace. Lest we forget their bravery and commitment, is an example of why we celebrate our Veterans for their service and sacrifice for our country."
"I wish you all peace, and may all of you, your families and the people of American Samoa have a very happy Veterans Day."
"A personal message to all the Toa o Samoa who are currently serving our country at home and around the world, especially those serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, ia tumau lo outou faatuatua i le Atua. Ia tumau lo outou mataala ma le toa o outou loto. O loo matou tu'i atu pea le mulipapaga ma tatalo e tapua'ia lo outou alofaiva ina ia a'e ma le manuia," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 7, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega files Amicus Curiae brief against the Tuaua lawsuit
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he filed an amicus curiae brief in D.C. District Court (Court) in reference to the Tuaua v. United States case. The full electronic copy of the brief will be available on my website.
"I will like to thank the diligent work of Michael Williams, Thea Cohen and Michael Fragoso, attorneys at Kirkland and Ellis, LLP, in working with my office on a pro bono basis to prepare the amicus curiae brief," Faleomavaega said.
"The purpose of an amicus curiae brief, Latin for "friend of the court" is to bring to the Court's attention information that may prove useful in deciding the case. As a representative for American Samoa for over 20 years, it is my responsibility to help protect and preserve the culture and traditions of American Samoa. The outcome of the Tuaua lawsuit could have a devastating impact on our Samoan way of life."
"My amicus curiae brief highlights both legal and policy arguments on why the plaintiffs' lawsuit should be dismissed. Excerpts from the brief are included below," Faleomavaega concluded.
The Supreme Court Precedent in the Insular Cases Forecloses Plaintiff's Claims:
"Well-settled precedent of the Supreme Court forecloses plaintiffs' claim thatbirthright citizenship, as established in the Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, extends to the Territory of American Samoa. In a series of decisions known as the Insular Cases, the Supreme Court held that the term "United States" as used in the Constitution does not extend geographically to every territory subject to the jurisdiction or under the dominion of the United States."
"Every federal court to directly address the issue (birthright citizenship) has also found that the Citizenship clause does not confer birthright citizenship to individuals born in unincorporated territories."
Congress, Not the Courts, Should Determine Whether Birthright Citizenship Should Extend to American Samoa:
"The Constitution vests in Congress plenary authority over the territories of the United States. Furthermore, Congress has authority over naturalization policy, including whether or not citizenship should be extended to territorial nationals. The power of Congress to legislate on matters relating to citizenship extends to the Founding of the republic and has frequently been used both to grant and to restrict access to citizenship both within the sovereign territory of the United States and abroad."
"The only mechanism for extending birthright citizenship geographically has been by act of Congress, pursuant to Congress's near-plenary power over naturalization."
"American Samoa has a mechanism for seeking citizenship if that is the will of its people: Congress can enact legislation extending birthright citizenship to the territory."
Extending The Fourteenth Amendment To American Samoa Could Have Unintended And Harmful Effects on American Samoan Society And Culture:
"If the Insular Cases were overturned, then restrictions preventing the alienation of Samoan land might be subject to the most exacting scrutiny, because the laws arguably make distinctions between people according to their heritage. American Samoa might face the heavy burden of showing that its laws are narrowly tailored to achieve a compelling government interest. The imposition of such judicial scrutiny would jeopardize the system that has preserved American Samoan society for over one hundred years."
"Though the plaintiffs have framed this case as one seeking rights for individual Samoans, imposition of citizenship by judicial decision would chip away at the right of the Samoan people, in cooperation with Congress, to govern their own affairs."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega announces American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C. is accepting applications for American Samoa Cherry Blossom princess
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C. Governing Board is seeking a young lady to represent American Samoa at the 2013 National Cherry Blossom Festival in April next year. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is coordinated by the National Conference of State Societies (NCSS) of which American Samoa Society of Washington is a member.
According to newly-elected American Samoa Society President Isapela "Pela" Enesi-Coggins, prospective candidates must submit a typed essay of no more than 500 words explaining "Why I desire to represent the American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C. as the Territory's Cherry Blossom Princess." Interested candidates may submit their essays to the American Samoa Society Governing Board no later than December 1, 2012 by email to americansamoasociety@gmail.com or by postal mail to The American Samoa Society of Washington, D.C., P.O. Box 66484, Washington, D.C. 20035.
To be considered in the selection process, each candidate must be a U.S. citizen or U.S national - either has been born in American Samoa, be the daughter of a parent born in American Samoa, or be a legal resident of the Territory. Candidates must be at least 19 years of age and no older than 24 years old as of April 14, 2013, the closing day of the NCSS activities of the 2013 Festival. Candidates must also be at least a high school graduate, and must be single, never married, and have no children.
The Princess will be chosen by the American Samoa Society based on their background, academics, leadership, community service, and future ambitions. Each candidate should possess poise, intelligence, maturity, have a good personality and character, and enjoy good physical, mental, and emotional stability in order to withstand the rigorous schedule of Festival activities. The 2013 Princess will serve a term of one calendar year and is required to be present and participate fully in the 2013 National Cherry Blossom Festival events, including all NCSS events, during the period of April 7 - 14, 2013.
"I would like to thank the American Samoa State Society and National Conference of State Societies for providing this unique opportunity for our community to participate. As part of the Cherry Blossom Princess Education and Cultural Exchange Program, a young lady from our Samoan community will have the privilege to partake in this exceptional weeklong program with young women from across the U.S. and around the world," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"Since 1948, more than 3,000 young women have participated in this program where they have had the opportunity to meet with many notable leaders as well as female role models who serve in our nation's Capital. These young ladies will gain an increased understanding of government and be exposed to a broader international environment with several events featuring the Japanese Ambassador among other world leaders. I encourage all qualified candidates to consider applying for this once-in-a-lifetime experience," Faleomavaega added.
"Finally, I want to congratulate the recently elected leadership of American Samoa Society of Washington, DC, President Isapela Enesi-Coggins, 1st and 2nd Vice Presidents Christina Maiava-Schaff and Falaniko Vitolio, Secretary Julin Williams, Treasurer Johnny Toma and Historian John Brown. I also want to acknowledge and thank some of the past leaders and founding members of the American Samoa Society including John and Iiga Apaula Brown, Paul and Marion Coleman Hetmanek, Fred and Ipu Eseta Suiaunoa Gray, and Joseph and Claire Hunkin Kennedy. I look forward to the Society's selection of the next American Samoa Cherry Blossom Princess," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega to file Amicus Curiae brief against the Tuaua lawsuit
Congressman Faleomavaega announced today that he intends to file an amicus curiae brief next week with the U.S. District Court for Washington D.C. (Court) in reference to the Tuaua v. United States case.
An amicus curiae brief, Latin for "friend of the court" allows non-parties to a case to bring to the attention of the Court relevant information not already brought to its attention by the parties. Amicus briefs are often used by Members of Congress to alert the Court to the wide ramifications and unanticipated effects of litigation in their home district. According to American Jurisprudence, Second Edition (4 Am Jur 2d Amicus Curiae § 1), Amici curiae presentations assist the court by broadening its perspective on the issues in a case to facilitate informed judicial consideration.
"First, I want to thank the law firm of Kirkland & Ellis. I am pleased that they have agreed to work with my office in developing the amicus curiae brief on a pro bono basis," Faleomavaega said.
"As the delegate from American Samoa in Congress, it is my responsibility to advocate for our people and I am pleased to have the opportunity to help the federal district court decide this important issue for the Territory."
"By filing an amicus curiae brief in the Tuaua lawsuit, I will be able to inform the Court about the potential harmful consequences that could result for the Samoan culture if persons born in American Samoa automatically become U.S. citizens."
"The lawsuit has the potential to result in the application of the equal protection clause to American Samoa. If the equal protection clause of the U.S. Constitution is applied in American Samoa, laws that provide only for persons of Samoan blood like our communal land and our matai title laws could be invalidated and ruled impermissible as race-based discrimination."
"The U.S. Constitution (Article 1, Section 8, Clause 4) "expressly reserves" the power to make rules of naturalization to Congress. The plaintiffs in Tuaua are requesting the Court to interpret the Constitution to make persons born in American Samoa automatic U.S. citizens. By using the Court system to gain citizenship, it is impossible to know what impact the decision will have on the Samoan culture. However, by using the political process to gain citizenship, American Samoans can ensure that our culture and traditions are preserved. All other U.S. territories have used the political process to gain citizenship, and have been able to preserve their traditional cultures."
"The question of citizenship for persons born in American Samoa should be decided by the people of American Samoa, not by a federal court 6000 miles away. I hope that through this amicus brief, the Court will hear the voice of many Samoans who fear the demise of our 2000 year old culture if the Court decides to grant automatic citizenship to all persons born in American Samoa," Faleomavaega concluded.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 5, 2012
Washington, D.C. - Faleomavaega to speak at second annual Close Up youth summit in American Samoa
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that on October 10th he will offer opening remarks before the second annual Close Up Youth Summit held in American Samoa. Close Up representatives, Liz Spurgeon and Sara Walkup, are in American Samoa this week to conduct the three-day Youth Summit for local high school students. The civic education program will take place from Wednesday, October 10th to Friday, October 12th at the Lee Auditorium in Utulei.
According to Close Up Foundation, a group of 80 students will participate in this year's program representing the high schools of Faga'itua, Samoana, Nu'uuli Voc-Tech, Tafuna, Leone, Manu'a, Pacific Horizons, South Pacific Academy, Fa'asao-Marist, Manumalo Baptist, Iakina Adventist Academy and Kanana Fou. With the help of local educators, Close Up will guide students through a rigorous curriculum identifying important public policy issues. The students will also implement research and writing skills by developing an "Agenda for Policy Action".
The Close Up Foundation is a non-profit non-partisan organization committed to inspiring and educating young people to become active citizens in our democracy. Since 1988, Congress has been providing funding to Close Up through the U.S. Department of Interior (US-DOI) specifically to support participation by students and teachers from the Insular Areas, including American Samoa. Each year, students travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in Close Up's educational programs along with participants from other States and Territories. Last year, Close Up launched the local Youth Summit as part of an expanded effort to bring civic education programs to American Samoa.
"Each year, I look forward with great joy to hosting our Close Up students from American Samoa in my Washington, D.C. office. I am pleased and honored to also take part in this year's Close Up Youth Summit in American Samoa and I thank Close Up for inviting me to offer opening remarks and share in this significant educational experience for our young people," Congressman Faleomavaega stated.
"I also thank the Department of the Interior for its work with the Pacific Insular areas and for supporting this program for 25 years now," Faleomavaega added.
"While it is important for our young people to be knowledgeable about national affairs, it is just as crucial that they become active in their communities and local policy issues that affect their daily lives and the future of American Samoa."
"I commend Close Up for providing this excellent service to our youth and I extend my gratitude to Close Up educational specialists, Liz Spurgeon and Sara Walkup, for their hard work. I thank them also for taking the time to visit my Washington, D.C. office to learn more about the culture and politics of American Samoa during their preparations for the Summit. I also offer my appreciation to all of our local educators and government officials who have assisted with planning and who will participate in the Summit."
"Last but not least, I congratulate all of our students who were selected to participate and represent their schools in this year's program. I am confident that everyone will greatly benefit from this educational experience as future leaders of American Samoa", Congressman Faleomavaega concluded.
According to Close Up Foundation, the following teachers, educators, and government officials will also participate in this year's Summit:
Teachers
| Salote Aoelua-Fanene | Nu'uuli Voc-Tech |
| Edmund Amataga | Leone |
| Donna Mataese | Samoana |
| Rhonda Tuia | Kananafou |
| Amanda Maeataanoa | Fa'asao-Marist |
| Tamara Tialavea | Samoana |
| Trina Tui | Tafuna |
| Faugagana Fagaava | Faga'itua |
| Celesty Tuiolosega | Manu'a |
| Randy Baker | Fa'asao-Marist |
| Peter Thomas | South Pacific Academy |
| Cynthia Horowitz | Pacific Horizons |
| Dan Bi Shin | Manumalo Baptist |
Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and Accountability
Paulo Salave'a
Pisavale Tialavea
Christine Le'iato
Office of Insular Affairs
Lydia Faleafine-Nomura
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2012
Washington, D.C. - U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awards $337,070 to Intersections, Inc. for teen pregnancy prevention program
Congressman Faleomavaega today announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS) last week awarded $337,070 to Intersections, Inc., a faith-based not-for-profit youth organization based in American Samoa.
The funding, which was awarded through US-DHHS Administration on Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF), is a Personal Responsibility Education Program (PREP) competitive grant. The program was authorized by the Affordable Care Act (ACA) passed by Congress and signed into law by President Barack Obama on March 23, 2010. The ACA provided funding for the program through September 2015.
The purpose of PREP is to provide education for adolescents and young adults on the prevention of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS. Applicants to the program are encouraged to serve youth populations that are the most high-risk or vulnerable for pregnancies. The three-year PREP grant will assist Intersections, Inc. in providing teen pregnancy prevention curriculum in public and private high schools in Tualauta County.
Founded in 2002, Intersections, Inc. is under the leadership of Executive Director Moelili'a (Li'a) Seui and Program Manager Losoloso (Loso) I'aulualo. In the past three years alone, Intersections, Inc. has served over 6,000 youth in American Samoa. Currently, 50 youth are part of the leadership team which helps to foster positive youth outcomes through a holistic approach including technology, media, and art education to improve the physical, social, and spiritual aspects of family life. Other significant programs within Intersections, Inc. include Media Discipleship Training School (DTS), Crossroads Theatre for Youth (CTY) and Nuanua Media Communications (Nuanua). In recent years, Intersections, Inc. also expanded to a Learning Center in Tafuna.
"I am pleased to hear that Intersections, Inc. has been awarded this Federal grant funding to support teen pregnancy prevention curriculum for our youth in our local high schools," Faleomavaega stated.
"Intersections, Inc. is a perfect example of the impact a few caring members of the community can have when they are committed to the cause of helping our young people. Since 2002, through their prayers, faith, and hard work, Intersections, Inc. has served thousands of young people in American Samoa, not only by providing services but also by empowering our youth to be change agents in the community," the Congressman stated.
"I offer my sincere appreciation to Executive Director Moelili'a Seui, Program Manager Loso I'aulualo and their team for all the exceptional service they provide to our young people. I congratulate Intersections, Inc. on being awarded this significant funding to enhance their programs and expand their impact among youth and families in American Samoa," Faleomavaega concluded.
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