Georgetown Hosts Inaugural PISA POPUP: Blue Pacific Scholars, Diplomats, and Federal Allies Unite

Last week, the Blue Pacific Pathways team traveled to Washington D.C. to lead a two-day retreat, drawing together Blue Pacific international scholars, the Tonga Consul General, PISA National staff and students, and members of the wider Pacific Islander community in Washington D.C.

The event kicked off on Thursday afternoon with Georgetown University’s commencement ceremony, where PISA National Board Chair Lavinia Taumoepeau Latu proudly received an Executive Master’s Degree in International Emergency Disaster Management. Following Thursday’s celebration, Friday's agenda was packed, beginning with a White House tour, a privilege arranged through our enduring relationships with the State Department and the White House.

Georgetown Graduate and PISA National Board Chair Lavinia Taumoepeau-Latu along with Blue Pacific scholars and Tonga Consul General.

Fueled by venti coffees, the team then dove into the bustling heart of D.C., heading to Georgetown University’s School of Continuing Studies for the inaugural PISA National meeting. Hosted by the International Emergency Disaster Management Program, this meeting brought together Georgetown PISA students, Blue Pacific international scholars, and representatives from the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and community allies.

Georgetown PISA Students participated in meaningful conversation, sharing their experiences of Blue Pacific identity and culture.

The meeting featured presentations and meaningful discussions that highlighted innovative approaches to Blue Pacific community, culture, and identity. Participants gained insights into the streamlined collaboration between the Blue Pacific region and the U.S. Pacific diaspora, and discovered abundant opportunities for students to connect with their countries of heritage.

The inaugural PISA POPUP was a transformative experience for students and community allies alike. We are excited about the new connections made and remain committed to engaging and amplifying the voices of the Blue Pacific community as we move forward.

PISA National Celebrates #BluePacificYouth with YouTube As Fiji, Tonga, Samoa and Vanuatu Announce Blue Pacific Youth Champions

Many Asian American and Pacific Islander organizations across America have taken the first day of May, also the beginning of AAPI Heritage Month, as a cue to announce new programs, Executive Directors, policy reports, giving campaigns, and special events to commemorate culture and heritage. It has been nothing short of exciting to witness the launch of innovation across both communities, and it feels like this year’s Heritage month seems to carry a more communal spirit than past years. Of course, the conversation and pursuit to disaggregate Pacific Islander data from the larger AAPI umbrella is still ongoing and necessary, however the understanding and mutual respect between the two kindred spirits cannot go unnoticed.

Amidst this flurry of activity, one striking trend emerges: a concerted effort to unify Blue Pacific youth, both within the U.S. diaspora and throughout the Blue Pacific Region. PISA National, alongside three Pacific Islander student-clubs (University of Southern California, University of Michigan, and Cal State Dominguez Hills), is leading a historic 7-week digital content campaign with YouTube to amplify the voices and narratives of #BluePacificYouth across America. Concurrently, Tonga, Fiji, Samoa, and Vanuatu are rolling out the final selections of this year’s Blue Pacific Youth Champions who will have the honor of embarking on year-long leadership journey around the Blue Pacific region that is focused on climate adaptation and resilience.

With each island nation selecting four representatives to join the pan-Pacific Blue Pacific Youth Initiative (led by the U.S Peace Corps), signifies a pivotal moment in U.S.-Pacific relations. Grounded in the strategic goals and outcomes outlined in the Blue Pacific Strategy that was designed and endorsed by the Pacific Islands Forum leaders, the Blue Pacific Youth Initiative is a joint effort between the United States and the Blue Pacific Region to develop Pacific Islander youth, and strengthen U.S-Pacific relations.

Furthermore, the groundbreaking partnership between PISA National and YouTube adds another layer of shared commitment to not only showcasing the stories of Blue Pacific Youth but also elevating our voices here in the United States. PISA National, alongside a consortium of grassroots entities on both sides of the Pacific, believe and actively are working towards building sustainable pathways between the two places we call home, and this collaboration sets the stage for enduring bonds between the Blue Pacific Region and the U.S. Pacific diaspora, charting a path toward sustainable progress.

U.S Congress Delegation Tours the Blue Pacific Region — but Why?

A recent delegation comprising of six (6) US Congress members and UN Foundation representatives toured the Blue Pacific region with a twofold purpose: to fortify partnerships and address critical issues such as climate change and economic empowerment. Under the leadership of Congressman Ami Bera, the delegation participated in high-level discussions during their visit to Fiji, Tuvalu and Tonga, emphasizing collaboration and mutual support in tackling regional challenges.

The visit of the 30-person delegation precedes several key events in the Blue Pacific region, including the 2024 Festival of Pacific Culture and Arts in Honolulu, Hawaii, the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, and the Small Islands Developing States Summit in Bangkok in May. An honest assessment of this Blue Pacific excursion emphasizes the priority advancement of both the Blue Pacific Strategy, initially outlined and endorsed by Pacific Islands Forum leaders in 2022 and the U.S Pacific Partnership Strategy championed by the White House under the Biden-Harris administration.

While in Fiji, the Delegation visited the Pacific Islands Forum Deputy Secretary General, Esala Nayasi, to learn more about the Pacific Islands Forum, and to explain the close partnership between the UN and PIF, which supports sustainable development of the region.

In Tonga, the itinerary encompassed visits to notable locations such as the newly established US Embassy Office in Nuku'alofa and the resilient community of 'Atata Si'i, Tonga. Through engagements with local stakeholders, including schools and healthcare facilities, the delegates reaffirmed solidarity with the people of Tonga and observed ongoing efforts to rebuild after natural disasters.

During their time in Tuvalu, the Delegation was met by Tuvalu's Ministry of Home Affairs, Climate Change and Environment to tour to tour the UNDP Pacific-supported Tuvalu Coastal Adaptation Project.

In a tweet, Congressman Ed Case (Hawaii-D1) shared his leadership in the delegation, highlighting their dialogues with government and community leaders across Fiji, Tuvalu, and Tonga.

Congressman Ed Case with youth in Tonga during Blue Pacific tour.

This U.S Congress visit to the Blue Pacific region prompts reflection on the role of the US Congress in advancing Blue Pacific interests and the strategic timing of such engagements.

The main curiosity among the sea of questions is — where and how does the Pacific-American diaspora exercise it’s civic duty and cultural responsibility to educate and inform our U.S leaders on matters of our islands? With the Smith-Mundt Act now allowing the US to involve the American public in discussions of foreign affairs, our right and responsibility to support these conversations are critical to the sustaining of relationships between the two places we call home.

Our leaders are reflections of us Pacific Islanders in America, and just as we are taught in our home — we reflect, to the highest degree, our home. It is on us to ensure our Pacific Islands culture, history and language are honored and preserved in engagements with the Western world.

Our Pledge to the New Wave of Leaders? We Got You.

(2 min.) As we embark on the task of selecting new leadership for the Pacific Islander Student Association (PISA), it's crucial to recognize the profound impact PISA has made has made since its humble beginnings in the early 1980s. In short, PISA has served as a beacon of hope and empowerment for the Pacific Islanders national demographic that 1) higher education is attainable and 2) there is a space for us on college campuses

In the coming weeks, PISA chapters across the country will be electing a new cohort of leaders to carry on the vital work. This duty is both honorable and demanding, requiring current PISA club members to reflect deeply on the organization's founding principles and mission. From creating inclusive spaces to advocating for policy changes, PISA has been instrumental in driving positive change and fostering partnerships across various spheres.

Central to PISA's mission has always been a focus on cultural identity, providing many club members with their first exposure to their heritage outside of their homes and churches.

As PISA leaders embark on this new chapter, it's imperative to ask the tough questions. Are we staying true to the core values that have guided PISA for decades? Are we adequately addressing the evolving needs of Pacific Islander youth in today's world? And perhaps most importantly, are we equipping the next generation of leaders to continue PISA's legacy of community engagement and advocacy?

During this critical time, we urge all members of PISA to approach the leadership elections with a sense of purpose and responsibility. Now, more than ever, we need visionary leaders who will uphold PISA's founding principles and champion the interests of Pacific Islander communities nationwide.

As we chart our course for the future, let us reaffirm our commitment to unity, inclusivity, and progress. Together, we can ensure that PISA remains a driving force for change and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

The Cultural Pulse: How Student Activism Shapes Society and Challenges Power

From the hallowed halls of academia to the bustling streets of protest, student activism beats as the cultural pulse of society, resonating with the heartbeat of change. Embedded within the fabric of history, student movements have not only challenged institutional norms but also acted as a vital social check on the power structures that govern us, particularly within the realm of the military-industrial complex.

At the core of student activism lies a fundamental quest for justice and equity, transcending campus boundaries to confront systemic injustices that permeate society. In the struggle against the doctrine of in loco parentis, students rebelled against the paternalistic grip of colleges, asserting their autonomy and rights to freedom of expression. This early rebellion laid the groundwork for a broader societal awakening, heralding an era where students would become the vanguards of change.

As the civil rights movement swept across the nation in the 1960s, student activists emerged as fierce advocates for racial equality, challenging segregation both on and off campus. In landmark cases like Dixon v. Alabama (1961), students successfully dismantled the vestiges of institutional oppression, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable educational landscape. But their activism transcended mere campus boundaries, serving as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action in holding power to account.

Indeed, student activism has often acted as the social checks and balances of the U.S. government, particularly in its dealings with the military-industrial complex. During the tumultuous years of the Vietnam War, student protests reverberated across the nation, challenging the government's policies and questioning the morality of war. Universities, once bastions of military recruitment, became hotbeds of dissent, as students demanded an end to the war and accountability from those in power.

Similarly, in the 1980s, student activists turned their gaze towards apartheid South Africa, demanding that universities sever ties with the regime and divest from companies supporting its oppressive policies. Through sustained pressure and activism, students compelled institutions to confront their complicity in injustice and take a stand for human rights.

Today, student activism continues to pulse with vitality, tackling pressing issues such as environmental sustainability, racial justice, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. The recent protests over the Israel-Gaza war serve as a stark reminder of the enduring power of student activism to challenge entrenched power structures and advocate for change.

In an era of political polarization and increasing militarization, student activists stand as beacons of hope, reminding us of our collective responsibility to challenge injustice and uphold democratic principles. Their tireless efforts not only shape the trajectory of our educational institutions but also act as a barometer of societal progress, holding those in power accountable to the values of justice, equity, and peace.

As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, let us heed the call of student activists and stand in solidarity with their quest for a more just and equitable society. For in their unwavering commitment to social change lies the promise of a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Pasifika Fulbright Scholars Meet in Seattle for Fulbright Summit- Urges Local & Indigenous Voices

Seattle recently welcomed the Fulbright summit, spotlighting the crucial imperative of incorporating underrepresented and indigenous viewpoints into climate change discourse. Rooted in both indigenous wisdom and contemporary strategies, the summit echoed a collective commitment to health, human rights, and equity.

Hosted by the Institute of International Education (IIE), this year's summit theme, "A Sustainable Path Forward: Conservation, Adaptation, and Innovation," guided discussions featuring keynote speakers from esteemed institutions like the Seattle Times and former Fulbright recipients sharing insights from their global experiences.

In attendance were Pacific Islander Fulbright scholars from Papua New Guinea, Aotearoa, Samoa, and Tonga, infusing discussions with their invaluable indigenous perspectives. Their contributions were especially meaningful given the focus on conservation, adaptation, and innovation in the Blue Pacific region.

Participants actively engaged in hands-on activities, immersing themselves in local sustainability initiatives such as Voices of Tomorrow and the Tilth Alliance farm. Collaborative partnerships, exemplified by initiatives like the Bullitt Center, showcased innovative approaches to sustainable architecture.

At the University of Washington, attendees explored cutting-edge research in environmental science and sustainability, reinforcing the summit's commitment to advancing knowledge and action in these critical areas.

The Summit highlighted the urgent need for inclusive, community-driven solutions to address the challenges posed by climate change. At the grassroots community level, solutions are designed to meet the needs are more likely to impact and create change than efforts made at the federal or state levels. By amplifying local voices and fostering collaboration to achieve sustainable futures, we ensure conservation, adaptation and innovation at the highest quality of impact.

U.S to host FESTPAC24 - Forgets to Include U.S Pacific Diaspora

(2 min.) In June 2024, Hawaiʻi will take center stage as the proud host of the 13th Festival of Pacific Arts and Culture (FestPAC), a monumental occasion that heralds a new chapter in the cultural history of the Pacific region. This historic event, rooted in a legacy spanning over half a century, holds profound significance as it brings together over 2,200 delegates from at least 28 Pacific countries and U.S. territories.

Born out of a shared concern for the preservation of Indigenous Pacific practices, FestPAC emerged as a powerful symbol of cultural revival and unity. Its inaugural edition in Suva, Fiji, back in 1972, known then as the South Pacific Festival, laid the groundwork for what would evolve into one of the most revered cultural gatherings in the Pacific.

Since its inception, FestPAC has served as a vibrant tapestry, weaving together the diverse traditions, arts, and customs that define the Pacific Island cultures. Against the backdrop of recent advancements such as the Pacific Islands Forum 2022's Blue Pacific Implementation Strategy and the U.S Pacific Partnership Strategy, championed by the Biden-Harris Administration, this year's FestPAC, hosted by the United States, signifies a pivotal moment in the relationship between Pacific partners.

On the sidelines of FestPAC, a series of celebrations and conferences will convene, including the Young Pacific Leaders Institute, for Pacific Heads of State and young Pacific leaders to strategize and envision the future of the Blue Pacific region. Yet, amidst these discussions, there remains a crucial question: What about the U.S Pacific diaspora?

While FestPAC aims to engage Pacific leaders from the region, there's a growing call to include voices from the U.S Pacific diaspora. A quick study of the history of U.S public diplomacy will tell you of the long-term iron curtain that was placed between the American public and the U.S foreign affairs. It was not until 2012 when the Smith Mundt Act (Google later) was amended to allow the U.S government to pull the domestic public into the conversation on matters of foreign affairs.

Although the new way of public diplomacy is still in its infancy stage, the U.S Pacific diaspora should be part of these conversations especially if it includes the government attempting to build a presence within the Blue Pacific region using soft-power repertoire. However, the only type of participation offered to U.S Pasifika diaspora at the FestPac festival seems to be a consumer one, with many of these closed convenings requiring an eligibility of participants to be a resident and citizen of countries in the Pacific Islands. 

As Pacific Islanders,  we are equally knowledgeable and passionate about our heritage, and can contribute to discussions on geopolitical issues and advocate for our own communities' interests alongside our Pasifika peers who will be joining from the Blue Pacific region, but more importantly to our own government. 

As Aunty Haunani K Trask once emphasized, cultural activism goes hand in hand with political engagement. For many Pacific Islander-Americans, participation in discussions around the future of the Blue Pacific region is not just a desire but a necessity. They seek to ensure that their voices are heard and that the government and nation they belong to uphold the values and aspirations of their Pacific heritage.

In essence, FestPAC 2024 presents an opportunity not only to celebrate cultural diversity but also to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration, bridging the gap between Pacific Islanders and the U.S Pacific diaspora. By embracing diverse perspectives and fostering inclusivity, FestPAC has the potential to become a catalyst for positive change, uniting Pacific communities both near and far in their shared journey towards a brighter future.

The WNBA Just Drafted its way into the climate conversation with their first round pick

(4 min.) Alissa Pili's historic draft into the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) not only marks a significant achievement in her athletic career but also represents a groundbreaking moment for Pacific Islander representation in the media. As a proud Pacific Islander of Inupiaq and Samoan descent, Pili's journey to the WNBA shines a spotlight on the talent and potential of athletes from underrepresented communities. Moreover, her success has the potential to inspire positive change beyond the basketball court, including in her homeland of Samoa, where efforts to combat climate change are gaining momentum.

Pili's draft to the Minnesota Lynx as the eighth overall pick underscores the importance of visibility and representation in sports media. As one of the few Pacific Islander athletes to reach the pinnacle of professional basketball, Pili's achievement resonates deeply with Pacific Islander youth aspiring to excel in athletics. Her success sends a powerful message of empowerment and possibility, showing young athletes that their dreams are within reach regardless of their background or circumstances.

Additionally, Pili's journey to the WNBA presents an opportunity to amplify Pacific Islander voices and stories in the media. By showcasing her talent and resilience on a national stage, Pili challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about Pacific Islander athletes, paving the way for greater inclusion and representation in sports media.

Beyond her impact on Pacific Islander representation, Pili's draft also has the potential to catalyze environmental advocacy, particularly in her country of heritage, Samoa. Climate change poses a significant threat to Pacific Island nations, including Samoa, where rising sea levels and extreme weather events endanger communities and ecosystems. In response to these challenges, Samoa’s Prime Minister Honorable Fiame Naomi Mata’afa has embraced the concept of "green games," prioritizing sustainability and environmental stewardship in sports events.

“Climate change is the single greatest threat to our blue Pacific continent” Honorable Mata’afa continues to note throughout her advocacy to bring more environmental awareness to Blue Pacific Sports. On the eve of a landmark report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which is expected to deliver a scientific “final warning” on the climate emergency, Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, Samoa’s prime minister, issued a desperate plea for action.

“We’re all impacted, but the degree of the impact is in the particular circumstance of countries. So our low-lying atoll countries, it’s right there, we’re living with it,” said Mata’afa. Samoa Prime Minister, alongside other Pacific Islands leaders have continued to beat the drum of environmental crisis in the Blue Pacific region, and Pili’s success in the WNBA may offer an turnkey opportunity to further advocate for more funding and awareness.

As a role model and ambassador for her community, Pili can use her platform to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and inspire action to combat climate change, especially in her homelands of heritage - Alaska and Samoa. Could Alissa Pili bring about a much needed and much desired environmental reform that prioritizes the lived experiences of the Blue Pacific region? Through her, the WNBA may be able to partner with the Blue Pacific leaders in a demonstrable way to showcase its commitment to protecting the environment while celebrating athletic excellence.

Alissa Pili's draft into the WNBA represents a significant step forward for Pacific Islander representation in the media and a potential catalyst for environmental advocacy in Samoa. As Pili continues to inspire and empower others through her achievements, her impact transcends the basketball court, offering hope and inspiration to Pacific Islander youth and promoting positive change in her homeland and beyond.

The Gen Z Pasifika-American Identity

Imagine having to navigate Pacific Islander cultural identity as a second or third-generation Pasifika-American, and at the same time, being held to family expectations that include top-salary careers and high[est] education, two overworked and outdated systems, as measurements of the family achieving the American dream. This is the reality for Generation Z Pacific Islanders—a generation tasked with traversing the crossroads of identity in an ever-evolving world.

For Generation Z Pacific Islanders, the journey is not just about reconciling their cultural heritage with mainstream American society; it's also about balancing the pressures of familial expectations rooted in traditional notions of success. The weight of these expectations can sometimes feel suffocating, as they are held to standards that may not align with their own aspirations and values.

Let’s be real –  the expectation to excel and achieve accolades and high salaries often overlooks the harsh realities embedded within these systems. The desire for family members to attain prestigious titles like PhD Degrees may be fueled by aspirations for success, but it may not fully account for the challenges and obstacles faced along the way. 

The pursuit of higher education, for instance, also includes isolation, discrimination, and persistent imposter syndrome—factors that are frequently overlooked amidst the emphasis on academic achievement. Generation Z Pacific Islanders find themselves navigating these treacherous waters, often feeling the weight of familial expectations while grappling with the harsh realities of the academic landscape.

The current cultural and political climate has heightened the scrutiny and challenges faced by Gen Z Pacific Islanders on college campuses. In the year 2024, everything is up for debate and scrutiny, exacerbated by the omnipresence of social media where every misstep and triumph is broadcasted for the world to see. This added pressure only adds to the already complex journey of cultural identity and familial expectations.

Think about the Generation Z Pacific Islander experience and identity as an evolved iteration of the broader American experience. In their journey to reconcile cultural heritage with societal expectations, they embody the resilience, adaptability, and determination that define the both the Pacific Islander and American spirit. 

In week one of the YouTube digital campaign, we invited participating PISA Clubs to ponder on their own experiences of being Gen Z Pasifika-American, and share it in the form of social media content. We are excited to further explore and unpack the dual reality of our Gen Z Pasifika-American students.